I love to make cutout cookies, but unfortunately, my decorating skills are that of a four year old (which may be offensive to four year olds).  So, until I can take a decorating class, I make them into sandwich cookies and put the frosting in the middle.  that way people can actually see what they actually are, and not ask “is that a bicycle?”  no, that is actually Santa.

Today’s version is the chocolate variety.  I will post other versions as well.  Remember to scoop out the flour from you bag or container and pour  into your measuring cups.  it is the best way to measure flour and get the right amount.  too much flour can make treats dry. 

The ingredients

2 3/4 cups flour    3/4 cup baking cocoa 1/2 tsp salt             1 tsp baking powder       1 cup butter (softened)   1 3/4 cups sugar 2 eggs                                    2 tsp vanilla.  

Beat butter and sugar medium high speed 3 minutes, add eggs and vanilla, mix in dry ingredients.  chill. 

 I take the dough out of the fridge and hour or so before I want to bake the cookies.  the dough is easier to roll out that way.  

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

roll dough on surface area that has been sprinkle with flour.  also sprinkle a little flour on top before you roll.  some people use powdered sugar.  I have not, but if you try it, let me know how it works out.

Roll dough about 1/2 inch thick.  cut with cookie cutter.  bake for 7 to 8 minutes.  let cool.

Use whatever frosting you want for the filling.  or you can do something simple with 1/4 cup butter melted .   I add some powdered sugar, tsp of vanilla and enough cream or milk to get the consistency you want.  then add food coloring.  I am the worst at determining how much frosting to make for anything.  it is either too much or too little.