Sugar Cookie Star Cutouts

Step 1

In a medium bowl, beat butter and shortening with electric mixer on high

Step 2

Add sugar, baking powder and a dash of salt. Beat until combined, occasionally scraping sides of bowl.

Step 3

Beat in Egg and Vanilla

Step 4

Beat in as much of the flour as you

Step 5

Cover can with the mixer, then add the rest and mix in by hand

Step 6

Cover and chill 1 hr

Step 7

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Step 8

Divide dough into thirds and on a lightly floured surface, roll dough one portion at a time to 1/4-inch thickness.

Step 9

Cut dough using 2-1/2- to 5-inch star-shape cutters.

Step 10

Place star cutouts on an ungreased cookie sheet.

Step 11

Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are firm and bottoms are very lightly browned.

Step 12

Let cool on cookie sheet for 1 minute.

Step 13

Transfer cookies to wire racks; let cool.

Icing

Step 14

In a small bowl combine powdered sugar, meringue powder, and cream of tartar.

Step 15

Stir in the 1/4 cup warm water.

Step 16

Beat with an electric mixer on low speed until combined, then on high speed for 7 to 10 minutes or until very stiff.

Step 17

Add remaining warm water 1 teaspoon at a time until icing is of glazing consistency.

Luster "Paint"

Step 18

Place luster dust in a custard cup.

Step 19

Stir in vodka.

Cookies

Step 20

Frost and pipe cookies with Royal Icing Glaze as desired.

Step 21

Use a tiny clean paintbrush to paint the piped designs with Luster Dust Topper.