Full of flavor, these cookies are great for any time of year and always popular with family and friends.
—PATRICIA QUINN OMAHA, NE
PREP: 35 MIN. • BAKE: 10 MIN./BATCH + COOLING • MAKES: 5 DOZEN
1 cup shortening
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 large eggs
1 1/2 teaspoons lemon extract
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
FROSTING
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shortening
1 teaspoon lemon extract
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups confectioners’ sugar
Yellow colored sugar
1. In a large bowl, cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and extracts. In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder and salt; gradually beat into creamed mixture.
2. Preheat oven to 375°. Divide dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion to 1/8-in. thickness. Cut with a floured 3-in. flower-shaped cookie cutter. Place 1 in. apart on greased baking sheets.
3. Bake 6-8 minutes or until edges are light brown. Cool on pans 2 minutes. Remove to wire racks to cool completely.
4. For frosting, in a bowl, beat cream cheese, shortening and extracts until blended. Gradually beat in confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Spread over cookies; sprinkle with colored sugar. Let stand until set. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator.