Frosted Cookies

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Heat the oven to 375. Use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and sugar; add the vanilla and egg and beat until well blended.

2. Step 2

   Combine the flour, baking powder and salt in a bowl. Add half the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, beat for a moment, then add the milk. Beat for about 10 seconds, then add the remaining dry ingredients and a little more milk, if necessary, to make a soft dough.

3. Step 3

   Roll the dough by hand into three logs of equal size. Chill dough until firm, then slice off rounds to create cookies. Bake until the edges are brown, about 10 minutes.

4. Step 4

   Cool for about 2 minutes on baking sheets before using a spatula to transfer the cookies to a rack to finish cooling. When cookies are completely cooled, cover generously with frosting or icing (see Step 5).

5. Step 5

   To Make Vanilla Frosting: Cream 8 tablespoons butter and gradually work in 4 cups of powdered sugar, alternating with 6 tablespoons cream (more if necessary). Stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Optional: Smash candy canes and sprinkle onto frosted cookies. To Make Mocha Frosting: Melt 1 ounce unsweetened chocolate in microwave or double boiler and set aside. Cream 8 tablespoons butter and gradually work in 4 cups of powdered sugar, alternating with 4 tablespoons cream (more if necessary). Stir in the chocolate, 2 tablespoons instant espresso, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.