Partridge-in-a-Pear Tree Cookies

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl beat butter with an electric mixer 30 seconds; gradually add the 2 cups sifted powdered sugar beating until combined.

Step 2: Beat in vanilla and salt.

Step 3: Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Step 4: Gradually beat or stir in flour.

Step 5: Wrap and chill dough 2 hours or overnight.

Step 6: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Step 7: Divide dough into four portions.

Step 8: On a lightly floured surface roll one portion of dough 1/8 inch thick.

Step 9: Cut out cookies using a 4-3/4-inch pear-shape cutter.

Step 10: Cut out a 1-1/2-inch partridge from the center of half of the pears.

Step 11: Cut out one 1-1/2-inch leaf for each cookie sandwich.

Step 12: Reroll partridges and dough scraps.

Step 13: Repeat with remaining portions of dough.

Step 14: Transfer cookies to a cookie sheet.

Step 15: Bake in preheated oven for 7 to 8 minutes or until edges are golden.

Step 16: Transfer cookies to wire racks; cool.

Step 17: Spread a generous teaspoon of apricot preserves over each whole pear cookie.

Step 18: Sprinkle additional powdered sugar on cutout pear cookies; place on top of whole cookies.

Step 19: In a small bowl stir together the 1/4 cup powdered sugar and enough milk to make an icing of spreading consistency. Spread on bottom of leaf cookies; attach one leaf cutout near stem of each pear cookie.