Maple Cutout Cookie Kit

1. In a large bowl beat butter with a mixer on medium to high 30 seconds. Add sugar, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Beat until combined, scraping bowl as needed. Beat in egg, maple syrup, and vanilla. Beat in flour. Cover and chill 30 to 60 minutes or until dough is easy to handle.

2. Preheat oven to 375°F. On a well-floured surface, roll dough to 1/8 inch thick. Using 3-inch cookie cutters. cut dough into desired shapes. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets. Reroll scraps as needed.

3. Bake 6 to 8 minutes or until edges just start to brown. Remove; cool on wire racks.

Kit:

1. Line gift boxes with tissue paper. Arrange one-fourth of the cookies in each box. Divide sprinkles among plastic bags or containers and place in gift box. Divide Maple Frosting among disposable decorating bags; twist open ends and tie with knots or secure with twist ties. (Add a note to snip off the tip of the bags when ready to decorate.) Add frosting bags to each box. If desired, add an inspiration photo for decorating cookies. Close boxes and decorate with ribbon as desired.

Maple Frosting

In a large mixing bowl beat 1 cup shortening, 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, and 2 tsp. vanilla with a mixer on medium until fluffy. Gradually beat in 4 cups powdered sugar until combined. If necessary, beat in enough water (1 tsp. at a time) to make frosting of spreading consistency. If desired, tint portions of frosting with gel food coloring.