THE PIONEER WOMAN SUGAR COOKIES RECIPES

Steps:

• For the cookies: Beat the shortening, granulated sugar, orange zest and vanilla in a large bowl with a mixer on medium speed until thoroughly combined, 2 to 3 minutes. Beat in the egg until light and fluffy, then beat in the milk. Sift the flour, baking powder and salt into a medium bowl. With the mixer on low speed, beat the flour mixture into the butter mixture until just combined. Divide the dough in half; flatten each half between 2 sheets of parchment or wax paper, wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or freeze for 20 minutes. For the glaze: Whisk the egg yolk, water and food coloring in a small bowl until well combined. Preheat the oven to 375 °. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll out 1 piece of dough on a lightly floured surface until about 1/4 inch thick. Cut into stars or other shapes with 2- to 3-inch cookie cutters. Arrange the cookies about 2 inches apart on the prepared pans. Brush the tops with the egg yolk glaze. Bake the cookies until set but not browned, about 6 minutes. Let cool 3 minutes on the pan, then remove to racks to cool completely. Decorate with royal icing and sanding sugar. Let set about 1 hour.

Steps:

• Preheat the oven to 350 F. In the bowl of an electric mixer (or using a hand mixer) beat together the butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in vanilla. Add eggs, one at a time, scraping the bowl after each one. Mix together the flour, salt, and baking soda in a medium sized bowl. Add it into the creamed mixture in 2 to 3 batches, mixing it until just combined. Mix in the oats until just combined. Use your preferred size cookie scoop (or a regular spoon) to drop portions of dough onto a lightly greased cookie sheet, spacing them a couple inches apart. Bake for 12-13 minutes or until dark and chewy. If you'd like a crispier cookie, just cook a little longer!
  Let them cool slight on the pan after removing from the oven, then transfer the cookies onto a plate for serving.
  
  * Note: Add 1/2 cup finely chopped nuts to the flour mixture if you'd like a nutty flavor and crunch.