There's nothing quite like the inviting aroma of fresh baked cookies right out of the oven. This recipe is one I've used for many, many years and it has never failed to produce an excellent batch of tender, buttery cookies. The dough can be made in batches and chilled for future use (simply take out of the refrigerator about 20 minutes before baking). These cookies are perfect to share with family and friends during the holidays and a box or tin of these make a wonderful, much appreciated gift anytime of the year.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla or almond extract
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 3 cups sifted flour
• 1 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans optional
• Sprinkles, jimmies, colored sugar for decorating

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat in egg and vanilla. Add baking powder and flour one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough will be stiff; blend in last cup of flour by hand. Take 1-2 tablespoons of the dough and roll into balls. Dip in sprinkles, sugar or nuts and place each ball of dough onto ungreased cookie sheet. Lightly press each ball down. Place each cookie about 2 inches apart on baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes--they will not brown much. Remove baked cookies onto a rack for cooling. Store in a tin.