Christmas Cookies

my little girl all bundled up :)

I love Christmas. The crisp air outside, warm cozy blankets, yummy candles, cookies, family, music, movies...spending time with people you love.

Every year we have been discovering our family traditions. Since

we are growing, I really want to do things that my kids will remember whe

n they grow up and remind them of the love they felt in our house since they were young. So one thing I started this year is making Christmas cookies with the kids to make and give

to our neighbors, family and friends. We have made probably about 6 different kinds so far.. I will post recipes and pictures and we do more!

My kids are so sweet and creative and love doing little projects like this. (its good and therapeutic for mom too!)

Sugar Cookies

1 1/2 cups butter, softened

2 cups white sugar

4 eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

5 cups all purpose flour

2 tsp baking powder

1 tsp salt

In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs and vanilla. stir in flour, baking powder and salt. Cover, chill dough for atleast an hour or overnight.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Roll out dough on floured surface 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick, cut into shapes. Place cookies 1 inch apart and bake for 8 minutes.

Royal Icing

3 tbspn meringue powder

4 cups sifted confectioners sugar

6 tbspn water

(you will also need piping bags, tips, gel food coloring..I got mine at Michael's)

Beat all ingredients on low for 7-10 minutes (or if you don't have a beater, just do it by hand.. I did!) until icing forms peaks.

Keep icing covered with a wet kitchen towel while you make your colors, it can dry out quickly.

Let dry, if you are putting them in containers, separate each layer with parchment paper so it doesn't stick! enjoy!! (so fun, we are doing another batch today!)