1 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
Decorator's sugar, optional

In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add milk and vanilla; beat until light and fluffy. Combine flour and baking powder; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Chill at least 2 hours or overnight.

On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut with trefoil cookie cutter or cutter of your choice. Place cookies on ungreased baking sheets. Sprinkle with sugar if desired. Bake at 350 degrees F for 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool on wire racks.

Yields 4 dozen 2 1/2-inch cookies.