Sugar Cookies and Frosting

*from foodnetwork.com

Pioneer Woman

This recipe was originally used by the PW for hand cookies. That is, sugar cookies in the shape of your hand. Such a cute idea, but I am afraid I have yet to make these cookies in the shape of hands. I have however used this recipe along with the frosting to make just normal sugar cookies! And it has soon become my favorite sugar cookie recipe! They are so soft and delicious! And the frosting is the perfect companion to these cookies. 

Ingredients

Cookies:

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/3 cups shortening
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon grated orange or lemon zest
• 2 whole eggs
• 2 1/2 teaspoons milk
• 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Frosting:

• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 sticks butter
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• Dash vanilla extract
• Edible decorations, for decorating

Directions

For the cookies: Cream the granulated sugar, shortening, vanilla and orange zest thoroughly. Add the eggs and beat until light and fluffy. Add the milk and mix. Sift the flour, baking powder and salt, and then blend into the sugar mixture.

Divide the dough in half, slightly flatten between two sheets of waxed paper and refrigerate, about 1 hour (or freeze for 20 minutes).

Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface. Carefully cut around hands using a dull knife.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

Transfer the cookies to a lightly greased cookie sheet.

Bake the cookies, about 6 minutes. Do not allow the cookies to brown.

Transfer the cookies from the oven to a wire rack to cool.

While the cookies are cooling, make the frosting: 
Simply combine the powdered sugar, butter, heavy cream and vanilla in a food mixer until light and fluffy. If you like you can put the frosting in disposable piping bags to make decorating easier.