A single batch of Grammy Peg's Christmas Cookies -- make sure you've got lots of help!

These cookies are an important part of our family holiday celebration.  It was a sign that you were growing up when my grandmother asked you to stop at her house after school to help make Christmas cookies.  As far as I've been able to learn, this recipe dates back to at least the late 1800's and is probably from Bavaria, Germany. 

Grammy Peg's Christmas Cookie Recipe

2 lbs sugar (4 cups)

1 ½ pounds butter (6 sticks)

10 eggs

2 tbls rose water (check your local drug store, or order online)

2 tbls vanilla

2 tbls baker’s ammonia (check your local drug store, or order online)

12-15 cups flour

Sanding sugar, coarse sugar, jimmies, candy shapes, etc. for decorating.

Roll flat, about 1/8-inch thick.  Cut into shapes; decorate.

Bake at 350 degrees for 8 minutes.

Depending on size of cookie cutters, makes hundreds of cookies!

These cookies can be baked a month or two in advance and stored in a cool, dry place. (Of course, you'll need a BIG glass of milk or cup of coffee to dunk them in!)