1 1/2 c. butter, softened
1 c. granulated sugar
1 lg. egg
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1/2 tsp. salt
4 1/2 c. flour

FROSTING:

2 c. powdered sugar
1/4 c. butter, softened
2 tbsp. milk
1 tsp. vanilla extract

In large bowl with electric mixer, beat butter, sugar, egg, vanilla and salt until light and fluffy. Gradually add flour; beat until well mixed. Cover dough; chill 1 hour or place in freezer 30 minutes.

Work with 1/4 dough at a time (keep remaining dough chilled), roll out 1/4 inch thick between sheets of waxed paper. Cut or mold into desired shapes. Repeat with remaining dough; re-roll trimmings; use to cut more cookies.

Heat oven to 375 degrees. Place cookies on ungreased baking sheets. Bake 8-10 minutes until cookies are lightly browned. Remove cookies to rack, cool completely. Frost and decorate cookies as desired. Store in airtight container. Makes 4-6 dozen.

FROSTING: Beat all ingredients together in a large bowl. It can be colored before applying to cookies.