1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened
2 cups sugar
4 eggs
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
5 cups sifted all-purpose flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt

Preheat oven to 400°F for at least 15 minutes before baking. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, using mixer on medium speed, cream butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Stir in flour, baking powder and salt. Cover, chill overnight.

Roll out dough on lightly floured surface to a 1/4-inch thickness. Cut dough into shapes. Place 1 inch apart on baking sheet.

Bake in preheated oven for 6-8 minutes or until lightly browned.

FROSTING:

4 cups powdered sugar
4-5 tbsp. milk
1 tsp. pure vanilla

In a large bowl, with mixer on low speed, combine powdered sugar and milk, add vanilla until well blended, smooth and spreadable. Add more milk if icing is too thick. Or add more sugar if icing is too thin.

Using a small spatula or knife, spread a thin layer of icing on each cookie.

Submitted by: Sherry Monfils