Chocolate Shortbread Trees

1. 1

   Heat oven to 350F.

2. 2

   Combine butter, powdered sugar and vanilla in large bowl.

3. 3

   Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until creamy.

4. 4

   Add flour, cocoa and cinnamon; beat at low speed until well mixed.

5. 5

   Roll out dough on lightly floured surface, one-half at a time (keeping remaining dough refrigerated), to 1/4-inch thickness.

6. 6

   Cut with 2 1/2- to 3-inch tree-shaped cookie cutters.

7. 7

   Place 1 inch apart onto ungreased cookie sheets.

8. 8

   Bake 8-10 minutes or until set.

9. 9

   Cool 1 minute on cookie sheet.

10. 10

    Cool completely.

11. 11

    Melt baking chips and shortening in 1-quart saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, 2-3 minutes or until smooth.

12. 12

    Place icing in small resealable plastic food bag.

13. 13

    Snip 1/8-inch off one corner.

14. 14

    Pipe icing as desired onto cooled cookies.

15. 15

    Decorate as desired.

16. 16

    Let stand until set.

No additional tips available.