Gifts
Ser Guapos

While it's fun to make and receive Valentine's Day cards, it's even more fun to throw a Valentine's Day cookie decorating party. All you need are some heart-shaped cookie cutters, a good recipe for sugar cookies, icing, and loads of pink, red, and white decorations, and you're on your way to some creative, tasty treats to share with those you love.

Ingredients

2/3 cup butter, softened
2/3 cup sugar
1 egg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup strawberry drink mix
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Glaze
1 cup (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon shortening

Frosting
1/3 cup butter, softened
2 tablespoons strawberry drink mix
1/8 teaspoon salt
3 cups confectioners' sugar
3 to 5 tablespoons 2% milk

Directions

In a small bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and lemon juice. Combine the flour, drink mix, baking powder and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well.

On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to 1/4-in. thickness. Cut with a floured 2-1/2- to 3-in. heart-shaped cookie cutter. Place 2 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350º for 8-10 minutes or until set and edges begin to brown. Cool for 2 minutes before removing to wire racks to cool completely.

In a microwave, melt chocolate chips and shortening; stir until smooth. Spread over cookies; let stand until set.

In a small bowl, beat the butter, drink mix and salt until blended. Gradually beat in confectioners' sugar. Add enough milk to achieve desired consistency. Decorate cookies.Yield:about 2 dozen.

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