Cookies

1. In a stand mixer, cream sugar and butter.
2. In a small bowl, combine the baking soda and sour cream.
3. Add the sour cream mixture to the butter mixture and mix until blended.
4. Add vanilla and eggs, mix until blended.
5. Sift the flour and baking powder.
6. Add the flour little by little and mix until well blended.
7. Cover and chill for 1 hour.
8. Roll dough out on a floured surface and cut out the cookies.
9. Place on a cookie sheet and bake for 8 minutes at 375 degrees.
10. Allow to cool before decorating.

Icing

1. Combine all ingredients (except the food coloring) in a mixing bowl mixing on medium speed for 4 minutes.
2. If icing is not stiff enough add more powdered sugar until you get the desired thickness.
3. Use a thicker icing for outlining.
4. For flooding, add 1 teaspoon of water to the icing to thin it out.
5. Divide out portions of the icing to add you food coloring gel to get the desired colors.
6. Allow the icing to fully dry before stacking or bagging (could be up to 24 hours)