16 tbsp. butter, softened
3 c. flour
1 c. sugar
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
2 eggs
1 tbsp. vanilla extract

In a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer, cream the butter until fluffy and pale yellow. Add the sugar and beat for about 2 minutes until soft and almost white. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add eggs and vanilla. Beat at medium speed for about 30 seconds. Add the flour, baking soda and salt to the mixture and mix slowly for 30 seconds, until the dough forms a ball and the flour is incorporated. Do not over mix.

Divide the dough in 4 parts. Place the dough in a large piece of wax paper. Roll the dough to form a smooth cylinder about 6 inches long and 1 1/2 to 2 inches across. Twist the ends of paper to seal, and chill for at least 1 hour. Repeat with rest.

To make teddy bears, cut 3 rounds of dough about 1/4 inch thick. On a non-stick cookie sheet or on parchment paper, place 2 rounds, one overlapping slightly the other to form head and body. The third round cut in 4 even parts and overlap to form legs and arms. Use a little more dough for ears. Decorate with chocolate chips, M&M'S® or other candy.

To bake cookies, place in a preheated 375 degree oven for 5 to 8 minutes, until barely browned at the edges and golden brown on the bottom. Remove cookies to cooling rack. After the cookies are cold, decorate with thin streams of royal icing. Makes 72.

ROYAL ICING:

2 egg whites
3 c. confectioners' sugar
1 tbsp. lemon juice
1/4 tsp. salt

Combine the egg whites, sugar, lemon juice, and salt in a mixing bowl. Beat at high speed for several minutes, until the mixture holds soft peaks. For decorating, fill a pastry bag fitted with a fine point tube.