1 c. shortening
1 1/2 c. sugar
3 eggs
4 c. all-purpose flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 c. buttermilk
1 1/4 tsp. almond or vanilla flavoring

Cream shortening and sugar, beating well at medium speed of electric mixer. Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Add to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk and flavoring. Mix well. Cover and chill at least 1 hour. Roll dough to 1/4 inch thickness on floured surface. Cut with 2 1/4 inch round cookie cutters. Put on a greased cookie sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes or until edges begin to brown. Sprinkle top of cookies with additional sugar, if desired. Makes 4 dozen.