Advent Cookies

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 400 degree F.

2. 2

   Mix all of the ingredients together, except for the flour.

3. 3

   Add the flour slowly to the rest of the mixture until it reaches the right consistency to roll out.

4. 4

   The dough should be quite soft.

5. 5

   (You may find it easier to knead it with your hands.)

6. 6

   Roll out on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch and cut into decorative shapes with small cookie cutters, a sharp knife or the rim of a glass.

7. 7

   Place on a greased baking sheet and bake in the oven for about 8 minutes.

8. 8

   Remove from the oven while they are still soft and cool on a rack, then pack into crocks or jars.

9. 9

   The authors note that the Pennsylvania Dutch settlers made these at Thanksgiving and stored them in a stoneware crock until Christmas.

10. 10

    The cookies can be made at any time, but allowed to age for 4 to 6 weeks.

11. 11

    They can be used as a substitute for graham crackers for a pie crust.

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