Basic Sugar Cookies Recipe

In a large bowl, beat together the butter egg, the add and stir in the confectioners' sugar until the mixture is creamy.

Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until you don't see and streaks.

In a medium sized bowl, stir together the flour, cream of tartar, and baking soda. Blend the flour mixture slowly into the the butter mixture, until it is completely incorporated..

Divide the dough into three parts and shape into balls. Working with one ball at a time, roll out dough to 1/4 inch thick on a floured surface. (Keep the balls you're not working on in the refridgerator until you need them.) With cookie cutters or a knife, cut dough into the shapes you desire.

Place your cookies on an ungreased cookie sheet, 2 inches apart. Bake in an oven preheated to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) until lightly browned. (about 10-12 minutes)

Remove cookies to a wire rack, and allow them to cool completely before frosting.