Goodies from Scratch

Christmas cookies
Yields: 2 1/2 Dozen

Ingredients

1/4 cup Shortening
3/4 cup Sugar
1 Egg
1/2 cup Sour cream
1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract
1 1/3 cup All purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon Baking soda
1/4 teaspoon Baking powder
1/4 teaspoon Salt

Instructions
In a mixing bowl, cream shortening and sugar. Add egg, sour cream and vanilla. Combine dry ingredients; add to the creamed mixture. Chill for at least 1 hour. Drop by tablespoonfuls 2 inches apart onto greased baking sheets. Bake at 425 degrees for 7 ot 8 minutes or until lightlybrowned. Remove to wire racks to cool.

Burnt Sugar Frosting:
2 tablespoon butter (no substitute)
1/2 cup confectioners Sugar
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 to 4 teaspoons hot water

For frosting, melt butter in a small saucepan until golden brown; stir in the sugar, vanilla and enough water to achieve spreading consistency. Frost cooled cookies.