Christmas Sugar Cookies

*I got this recipe from my parents 's (Shafter Mennonite Brethren Church) cookbook. In the past I have used Better Home and Gardens...but I liked this one better. :)

3 1/2 c. sifted flour (I was naughty and didn't sift)
2 t. baking powder
1/2 t. salt
1/2 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 T cream
1 T vanilla

Sift flour, baking powder, and salt, set aside. Cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy, add eggs, cream, vanilla while beating. Add dry ingredients in thirds. Roll dough into ball, wrap and refrigerate for 3 hours. Roll into dough 1/4 inch thickness (not thinner) and cut with cookie cutters. Bake in 375 degree oven for 8 minutes. Watch carefully, do NOT brown. Decorate with butter cream frosting. Makes 3 dozen