We have quite a collection of seasonal cookie cutters, and this is our go-to recipe for shaped Butter Cookies. We whip this out on Christmas, Easter or any old time we feel like it. I think we like playing with the rolling pin and cookie cutters more than eating the cookies!

Ingredients:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, unbleached
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter, softened
1 cups organic sugar
2 large eggs, free range and organic
1 3/4 teaspoons vanilla extract

Beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time. Add vanilla and mix well.

Add flour, baking powder and salt and mix in with the rest of the batter.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Dust work surface with flour and sprinkle some of the remaining sugar on top of the flour. Using a floured rolling pin, roll one dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut out shapes with desired cookie cutters, re-rolling scraps for additional cutouts.

Place cookies 2 inches apart on greased baking sheets and bake for 8 to 10 minutes.

Decorate with cookie icing, if you want. Sprinkle with sugar. Or serve as is.