1 c. unsalted butter
1 1/4 c. + 2 tbsp. sugar
1 egg
2 tsp. vanilla
2 1/2 c. flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
Pinch of salt

FROSTING:

2/3 c. Crisco
5-6 tbsp. milk
4 c. powdered sugar

Cream butter and sugar. In separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, soda and salt. Add egg and vanilla. Stop mixing once or twice to scrape down sides of bowl. Add dry ingredients in 3 batches, until combined.

Quick Method: Form into balls with about 2 teaspoons of dough. Place on greased cookie sheet. Bake at 325 degrees for 14 minutes. Sprinkle with sugar. (Optional: you may wish to add 2 teaspoons of grated lemon peel if you choose this method.)

Roll and Cut Method: Separate dough into 4 flat rounds and refrigerate 30 minutes. Roll out 1/4" thick on lightly floured cloth. Cut into shapes. Bake at 325 degrees for 10 minutes. Make frosting by mixing with electric mixer until smooth. Ice cut outs when cool.