The Best Sugar Cookies

In a large bowl beat butter on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add sugar, baking powder, and salt. Beat until combined, scraping sides of bowl occasionally.

Beat in egg, milk, and vanilla until combined.

Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. Using a wooden spoon, stir in any remaining flour.

Divide dough in half. Cover; chill about 30 minutes or until dough is easy to handle.

Preheat oven to 375°F. On a lightly floured surface, roll dough, half at a time, until 1/8- to 1/4-inch thick. Using 2-1/2-inch cookie cutters, cut dough into desired shapes. Place cutouts 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheets. Repeat with the remaining dough.

Bake about 7 minutes or until edges are very light brown. Transfer to wire racks; cool. If desired, frost with desired icing and/or decorate with decorative candies.

In a large bowl, combine powdered sugar, meringue powder, and cream of tartar.

Add the 1/2 cup water and the vanilla. Beat with an electric mixer on low speed until combined, then on high speed for 7 to 10 minutes or until icing is very stiff. Add the 2 to 4 tablespoons water, 1 teaspoon at a time, to make an icing of spreading consistency.

If desired, divide icing into individual bowls and tint with paste food coloring.