2 cups butter (no substitutes), softened
2 cups sugar
3 eggs
5 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
6-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
Additional sugar
Walnut halves or raisins, optional

In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in milk and vanilla. Combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or until easy to handle.

On a lightly floured surface, roll out to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut with 2-1/2 inch cookie cutters dipped in flour. Place 1-inch apart on greased baking sheets. Sprinkle with sugar; place a walnut or raisin in the center of each if desired.

Bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.

Yield: about 11-1/2 dozen.

Submitted by: Jennifer Evans