Christmas Sugar Cookies

It isn't Christmas until we are baking sugar cookies.  

Last night for a special treat I gave our girls each their own set of Christmas kitchen tools.  They were so excited to unwrap an early Christmas treat.

These mini tools are perfect for little hands.  You can order from Pampered Chef.

We decided to add one special ingredient to our sugar cookies this time.

Here's the recipe we normally use for sugar cookies.  This recipe is perfect for cut out cookies, which we will be making soon.  I have to tell you though, the M&M sugar cookies were very yummy, and simple for our 2 year old to make (which made her very happy).

3 c. all-purpose flour
1 c. sugar
1-1/2 t. baking powder
1/2 t. salt
1 c. butter, softened
1 egg, slightly beaten
3 T. milk
1 t. vanilla extract

Mix flour, sugar, baking powder and salt in a large bowl.  Cut in butter.  Add egg, milk and vanilla; mix well.  Divide dough into 2 balls; flatten each into a disc shape and wrap in plastic wrap.  Refrigerate for one hour to 2 days, until ready to bake.  Roll out each disc 1/8 inch thick on a floured surface.  Cut out shapes with cookie cutters; placed on ungreased baking sheets.  Bake at 400 degrees for 5 to 8 minutes, until very lightly golden; do not over bake.  Cool on wire racks.  When cooled, frost with stiff buttercream frosting; decorate as desired.  When frosting is set, store cookies in airtight containers with wax paper between layers.  Makes 6 to 7 dozen.