Sugar Cookies

Ingredients

500 mL sifted all purpose flour 1 dash 7 mL baking powder 125 mL unsalted butter 125 mL sugar 1 large egg 5 mL vanilla extract 5 mL lemon juice and zest of 1 lemon royal icing (optional) Directions

1.  In a large bowl, sift together flour, salt, and baking powder. Set aside.

2. Use an electric mixer to cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs.

3. Add flour mixture, and mix on low speed until thoroughly combined. Stir in vanilla or lemon juice and zest. Wrap dough in plastic; chill for about 30 minutes.

4. Preheat oven to 325°. On a floured surface, roll dough to 1/8 inch thick. Cut into desired shapes. Transfer to ungreased baking sheets; refrigerate until firm, 15 minutes. Remove from refrigerator, and decorate with sanding sugar, if desired. Bake until edges just start to brown, 8 to 10 minutes. Cool on wire racks. Decorate with Royal Icing, if desired. May be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.