Stained Glass Cookies/Classic Sugar Cookies

1 1/4 c. Granulated Sugar
1 c. Butter Flavored Vegetable Shortening
2 Eggs
1/4 c. Light Corn Syrup or Regular Pancake Syrup
1 T. Vanilla
3 1/4 All Purpose Flour
3/4 t. Baking Powder
1/2 t. Baking Soda
1/2 t. Salt

In large bowl, combine sugar and shortening. Beat at medium speed with an electric mixer until well blended. Add eggs, syrup and vanilla (I use pancake syrup and love the flavor of the cookie). Beat again, until well blended and fluffy.

Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Add gradually to shortening mixture at low speed. Mix until well blended.

Divide dough into quarters. Wrap each quarter with plastic wrap. Refrigerate at least one hour. Keep refrigerated until ready to use.

When rolling dough I like to sprinkle sugar on the counter instead of flour (just a personal preference). Cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters.

Bake at 375F for 10 to 12 minutes.

Royal Icing
I use Martha Stewart's recipe which can be found here.