Partridge-in-a-Pear Tree Cookies

How to Make

• 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.