Buttery Cut-Out Christmas Cookies

1
Combine the first five ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
2
Beat at about medium speed until well combined and creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
3
Gradulay add flour, and beat until well mixed, about 2-3 minutes more.
4
Divide dough in half, and wrap each on in plastic wrap.
5
Refrigerate until firm, at least two hours.
6
Preheat oven to 375°.
7
Roll out dough half on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4" thick.
8
Keep the other half in the fridge until ready to use.
9
Cut out the shapes your prefer, using a 2 1/2 inch cookie cutter.
10
Place 1" apart onto ungreased cookie sheets.
11
(I lined my sheets with nonstick "release" foil).
12
If I'm making Christmas cookie shapes, I sprinkle the cookies with red, green, or multi-colored sugars before baking.
13
Bake for 7-9 minutes or until edges are just slightly browned.
14
Note: I find 8 minutes is the magic number for my oven. These cookies may also be baked plain, and decorated with icings after they are cooled.