Chocolate Sugar Cookies With Vanilla-Peppermint Glaze

Step 1: Sift flour, cream of tartar and baking soda together. Set aside.

Step 2: Beat butter until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Gradually beat in sugar.

Step 4: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Step 5: Add vanilla, cocoa and flour mixture, and mix well.

Step 6: Cover and refrigerate at least 3 hours, or overnight (Overnight is better).

Step 7: Preheat oven to 375° F.

Step 8: Roll dough out on floured surface and cut into shapes with cookie cutters.

Step 9: Place on ungreased baking sheets.

Step 10: Bake 6-8 minutes, or until firm.

Step 11: Cool 5 minutes on sheets, then transfer to rack.

Step 12: Frost with glaze when cool.

Step 13: Glaze: combine powdered sugar and extracts.

Step 14: Slowly blend in enough half-and-half to make a spreadable frosting.

Step 15: Tint with food coloring if desired.