Snowflake Cookies

1 . Stage

Beat sugar and shortening with an electric mixer in a large bowl until smooth. Beat one egg into butter mixture, then beat in remaining eggs and vanilla. Add flour and salt; stir until dough is just combined. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour.

2 . Stage

When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

3 . Stage

Roll dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of 1/8 inch. Cut dough into desired shapes with a cookie cutter and place 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheets.

4 . Stage

Bake in the preheated oven until edges are golden brown, about 6 to 8 minutes. Cool briefly on baking sheets, then remove to wire racks to cool completely before decorating.