Step 1

Beat 2 cups floursugarbuttersour creameggsbaking powderlemon extractbaking sodavanilla extract and salt in a large mixing bowl until well mixed. Stir in remaining 2 cups flour. Divide dough into 4 equal portions; wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hoursor until firm.

Step 2

Preheat oven to 350° F.

Step 3

Roll out 1 dough portion on a well-floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness. Keep remaining dough portions refrigerated. Cut with a 2 1/2- to 3-inch star-shaped cookie cutter. Place 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheets. Repeat with remaining dough portions.

Step 4

Bake for 8 to 12 minutesor until edges are lightly browned. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 5

Microwave morsels and vegetable shortening in a smallheavy-duty plastic bag on HIGH power for 1 minute; knead. Microwave at additional 10 to 20-second intervalskneading until smooth. Cut tiny corner from bag; squeeze to drizzle over cookies.

Step 6

For Sour Cream Cut-Outs: Omit lemon extract; increase vanilla extract to 2 teaspoons. Prepare as above.