1 1/3 cups soft shortening (use half butter, if desired)
2 cups sugar
2 eggs
1/4 cup cream
2 tsp. vanilla
4 cups sifted all-purpose flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1 1/2 tsp. salt

Preheat oven to 400°F.

Combine shortening and sugar. Add eggs, cream and vanilla.

Sift together flour, baking powder and salt. Add to blended mixture; mix well.

Divide dough into five parts. Place portions one at a time, in second bowl. Flavor each portion by adding ingredients as directed below.

Drop by tablespoonfuls onto greased baking sheets. Flatten slightly with spatula.

Bake in moderately hot (400°F) oven for 8 to 10 minutes. Cool and store in tight containers.

Makes 7 dozen medium sized cookies.

5-WAYS TO MAKE:

 • Coconut: Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut. Dip tops of cookies in egg yolk or white and top with plain or tinted coconut.
 • Orange-Pecan: Blend in 1 tablespoon grated orange rind and 1/4 cup chopped pecans. Top with half pecan.
 • Chocolate: Add 1 (1 oz.) square chocolate (melted), 1 tablespoon cream, 1/4 cup nuts.
 • Plain Sugar Cookie: Decorate with colored sugar, candied fruit or nuts.
 • Fruit: Add 1/2 cup diced candied fruit or 1/3 cup mincemeat.

Submitted by: Cecelia