1 c. shortening
1 1/2 c. sugar
3 eggs
1 c. All purpose flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 c. buttermilk
1 to 1/4 tsp. vanilla
Sugar optional

Cream shortening; gradually add sugar, beating well at medium speed with electric mixer. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Add to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk. Mix well. Stir in vanilla, cover and chill 1 hour. Roll dough to 1/4 inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut with a 2 3/4 inch round cookie cutter. Place on greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes or until edges begin to brown. Sprinkle with sugar, cool. Yield 4 dozen.