MoMo's Cut-Out Cookies

I just recently found out that other people refer to cut-out cookies as sugar cookies. Who knew? Actually, about the only time we had this kind of cookie when I was growing up was at Christmas time so I've always referred to them as Christmas Cookies. 

Whatever you call them, they are the cookies where you roll out the dough, cut it into shapes with cookie cutters, bake and then frost (see the Buttercream Frosting recipe for this!) and decorate. 

MoMo's recipe is the standard by which I judge all other cut-out cookies. The secret to their special taste is in using a combination of Vanilla, Almond, and Orange extracts. It's the perfect combination.

MoMo's Cut-Out Cookies

In a large mixing bowl, combine and beat thoroughly:

These were made by Bree for Easter 2009

1 cup Shortening
2/3 cup Sugar
1 1/4 tsp Salt
1 tsp Almond extract
3/4 tsp Vanilla extract
3/4 tsp Orange extract

Add:

2 Eggs, unbeaten and one at a time
2 1/2 cups Flour

Roll small portions of dough to about 1/4" thickness onto lightly floured surface with rolling pin. It helps to place a piece of saran wrap or waxed paper over the dough before rolling to reduce sticking. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Place cookies onto lightly greased cookie sheet or cookie sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a 350 degree oven for 8 - 10 minutes.

Remove when edges begin to turn brown. Cool on a rack and frost as desired.