EASTER BASKET COOKIES

Easter Basket Cookies

1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Beat shortening, butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time.

Combine dry ingredients; blend into mixture. Chill dough for easy handling; roll out on lightly floured surface. Cut out Easter shapes with cookie cutters. Bake on ungreased cookie sheet at 400 degrees F for 6 to 8 minutes, until lightly browned. Let stand a few minutes before removing to cool.

Frosting
2 cups confectioners' sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons hot water
Candy decorations

Combine ingredients in bowl; beat until smooth. Divide into 4 bowls; tint with food coloring. Spread on cookies; decorate as desired.