Sugar Cookies

(from Lynnissa DeSpain)

Ingredients: 
4 c sifted flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 c (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temp
2 c sugar
2 large eggs
2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Preparation:
1.  Preheat oven to 325.  Into a large bowl, sift together flour, baking powder and salt.  In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.  Beat in the eggs and vanilla.  Add flour mixture and beat on low speed until just combined.  Divide dough in half, and flatten into disks.  Wrap each in plastic, and chill at least 30 minutes.
2.  On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk to 1/8 to 1/2 inch thick.  Cut into shapes, as desired.  Transfer to baking sheets; chill until firm, about 15 minutes.
3.  Back until edges are just starting to brown, 10-12 minutes, rotating sheets halfway through.  Transfer to wire rack to cool.  Repeat with remaining dough.