Sweetheart Cookies

This recipe is from my friend, Caroline... it has become a favorite among our friends... especially for events and holidays.

Sweetheart Cookies

1/2 cup shortening

1/2 cup sugar

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 egg

1/2 cup sour cream

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

2 1/2 cups flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Mix sugars, shortening, and egg at medium speed. Add sour cream and vanilla. In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Add flour mixture to mixer and beat until combined. Chill dough for 1 hour. Roll into 1/8- 1/4 inch thick and cut with cookie cutter. Bake at 350 for 8 minutes or until golden. Transfer to cooling rack and allow to cool before icing. You can also allow the cookies to cool completely and freeze in ziplock bags for icing later.

Icing

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup shortening

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

4 to 5 cups powdered sugar

1/4 to 1/3 cup milk

food coloring, if desired

Cream butter and shortening. Add vanilla and salt. Add sugar one cup at a time, mix well after each cup. Scrape bottom and sides after all sugar is added... icing will appear very dry. Add milk Mix on high until light an fluffy. Add additional sugar and milk to reach desired consistency. Mix in food coloring, if desired. Cover with a damp cloth until ready to use. Ice cookies with spatula or pipe with pastry bag.