The Only Holiday Cookie Recipe You Need

Baking cookies is one of those traditions that's really about the people in the kitchen. This dough is sturdy enough for cut-outs and soft enough that everyone asks for the recipe.

Ingredients: 3 cups flour 1 cup butter, softened 1 cup sugar 1 egg 1 tsp vanilla 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp salt

Steps: 1. Cream the butter and sugar until fluffy, then beat in the egg and vanilla. 2. Mix the dry ingredients, then add them in until a dough forms. 3. Chill for an hour, then roll out and cut your shapes. 4. Bake at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes, until the edges are just set. 5. Cool completely before the fun part — decorating.

The safety splash: the holidays are prime time for little helpers in the kitchen, which is wonderful and also a moment for care. Turn pot handles inward, keep kids away from the hot oven and stovetop, and never leave the kitchen unattended while something's baking. A calm, safe kitchen makes the best memories. Happy baking from our family to yours.