It’s funny how I can really hate the cold, dark winters in London but not be so bothered by them when I am home for the holidays, all cozied up next to a fire! I love sitting around in my pajamas, listening to Christmas music and watching the rain splash against the windows (I’m in rainy Seattle, after all).

And of course, nothing makes sitting inside more enjoyable than a big plate of Christmas sugar cookies on the counter! Every single year at this time we make these cookies (frosted in red, white and green colors), and every year they disappear off the counter more quickly than anything else! They are one of my favorite things about Christmas — and fun to make with your kids!

Sugar Cookies:

Ingredients:

• 3/8 cup of butter
• 3/8 cup of shortening
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla
• 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1 teaspoon of salt

Mix thoroughly the shortening, butter, sugar, eggs and vanilla. Blend in flour, baking powder and salt. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour, (or you can stick it in the freezer to speed it up a bit. It just needs to be nice and cold when you roll it out and make your shapes)!

Roll dough out to 1/8 an inch thick on a lightly floured surface. Cut into shapes (Christmas trees, stars, bells, Santas, reindeer), and place on a baking sheet.

Bake for 6-8 minutes at 400°F (until very light brown).

Icing for cookies:

• one box of powdered (icing) sugar
• 2 tablespoons (or so) of milk
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla
• food coloring (red and green, optional)

That’s it– so easy and soooooo yummy!! I also make them on Valentine’s Day (cute pink hearts) and for Baby Showers. They are always a huge hit. Try them — you will see….

Merry Christmas!

-Courtney