1 1/2 c. plus 3 tbsp. granulated sugar, divided
1 c. butter, softened
2 eggs
3 c. all-purpose flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
3 tsp. ground cinnamon, divided

In a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer on medium speed, beat 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1 cup butter until light and fluffy. Add eggs; beat until blended. Sift flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Add to butter mixture. Mix with wooden spoon to make stiff dough. Cover bowl and refrigerate at least 2 hours. Divide dough into 48 walnut-sized pieces. Shape each piece of dough into a 5 or 6 inch long rope. Shape ropes into letters, circles, knots, triangles or whatever shape you want. Place on greased baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between cookies.

In a small bowl, combine remaining 3 tablespoons sugar and remaining 2 teaspoons cinnamon. Sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture on cookies. Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven 13 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from baking sheets and let cool completely on wire racks.