1 c. (2 sticks) butter
2 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 level tsp. baking soda
1 c. buttermilk
nutmeg, to taste
1 tsp. baking powder
4 c. all-purpose flour (approx.)
nuts or raisins, for decorating (optional)

Cream butter and sugar thoroughly. Blend in eggs. Dissolve baking soda in buttermilk and add to egg mixture. Add nutmeg. Sift baking powder with 2 cups of flour. Add to egg and buttermilk mixture. Add enough additional flour to make a very stiff dough. Drop by scant tablespoons onto greased cookie sheet. Flatten gently with the bottom of a drinking glass that has been dipped in flour. Decorate each cookie with a nut meat or raisin, if desired. Bake in a 325°F oven until lightly browned.

Submitted by: Lisa Grillo