Here’s the sugar cookie recipe we always use. I have to say sugar cookies are a real investment of time (and I think there are a lot of yummier kinds of cookies) so we really only make them once a year. This recipe is the best one I’ve found – they’re soft and tasty and the frosting is pretty darn good.

1 1/2 c. butter
2 c. sugar
4 eggs
1/2 c. milk

Cream together the above until smooth, then add…
2 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp cream of tartar
2 tsp vanilla
6 c. flour (add one cup at a time)

Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.

Roll out and cut with cookie cutters.

Bake at 350 for 8-10 minutes (or until just slightly browned on the very edges if you want soft cookies).

Buttercream Frosting

1 cup butter, softened
1 tsp vanilla
4 c. powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk (or a little more or less, depending on desired consistency of the frosting)

Cream butter, vanilla and one cup of powdered sugar until smooth, then add the rest of the powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Add the milk at the end, a little at a time, until the frosting reaches desired consistency. Add food coloring if you want.

Decoration ideas: red-hots (little cinnamon candies), red sugar sprinkles, valentine-colored M&M’s, chocolate chips, conversation hearts.