Valentine Cookies

 The best part of making these cookies is making them with family and friends. The real recipe should say add 5-10 grandchildren and parents who can be nice and patient. One rule of making cookies at grandma and papa's house is that you have to make at least one plate of cookies to take to someone in your neighborhood who might need a special visit or treat.

Sour Cream Sugar Cookies

6 cups flour

3 cups sugar

1 tsp. salt

1 cup shortening

2 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. soda

4 large eggs

1 cup dairy sour cream

1 tbsp. vanilla

1/2 teaspoon lemon extract (opt.)

1/2 teaspoon almond extract (opt.)

Blend as for pie crust: flour, sugar, salt, shortening, baking powder, soda. Mix in remaining ingredients until soft dough. Roll out on floured surface to 1/4" thick. Cut in desiredshapes. Bake 400° for 8 minutes. These cookies do not need to brown to be done.

Frosting:

2 pounds powdered sugar

1/4 c butter, room temperature

1 teaspoon almond flavoring

2 teaspoons vanilla flavoring

dash salt

1/2 - 3/4 cup milk

food coloring

Sour Cream Frosting:

1 cup butter (room temperature)

6 Tablespoons sour cream

6 Tablespoons milk

1 Tablespoon vanilla

1/4 teaspoon almond extract

6-8 cups powdered sugar