Step 1

Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (148 degrees C)

Step 2

In the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, (or in a large bowl) cream butter and icing sugar until light and fluffy (you can use an electric hand mixer, but it's not ideal).

Step 3

Gradually add flour and cornstarch, beating on medium high speed, until well blended.

Step 4

With hands lightly dusted with additional cornstarch, roll cookie dough into 1 inch. balls (or use a small cookie scoop)

Step 5

Place 1 inch. apart on ungreased baking sheet.

Step 6

Press lightly with floured tines of a fork.

Step 7

Add nonpareils and/or cherry halves, if desired to the top of the cookies.

Step 8

Baking time: Bake at 300° for 20-22 minutes or until bottoms are lightly browned.

Step 9

Cool for 5 minutes before moving from pans to wire racks to continue cooling. *If you try to move them too early, they will fall apart.