1/2 c. shortening
1/2 c. butter
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
3 c. all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt

Beat shortening, butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, 1 at a time. Combine dry ingredients; blend into mixture. Chill dough for easy handling; roll out on lightly floured surface. Cut out Easter shapes with cookie cutters.

Bake on ungreased cookie sheet at 400°F for 6 to 8 minutes, until lightly browned. Let stand a few minutes before removing to cool.

Frosting:

2 c. confectioners' sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
2 tbsp. butter
2 tbsp. hot water
food coloring
candy decorations (optional)

Combine first 4 ingredients in bowl; beat until smooth. Divide into 4 bowls; tint with various food colorings. Spread on cookies; decorate with candies, if desired.