Egg Yolk Painted Christmas Cookies

Ingredients

• 0.5 cup butter softened
• 1 cup confectioners' sugar sifted
• 1  eggs 
• 1  egg yolk 
• 2.5 cups flour all-purpose
• 30 servings colors of paste food coloring assorted
• 1 teaspoon salt 
• 0.5 cup shortening 
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 
• 0.3 teaspoon water 

Equipment

• baking sheet
• oven

Directions

1. Cream butter or margarine and shortening; gradually add sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
2. Add egg and vanilla; beat well.
3. Combine flour and salt; stir into creamed mixture. Divide dough in half; cover and chill at least 1 hour.
4. Roll one portion of dough to 1/8 inch thickness on a lightly floured cookie sheet.
5. Cut with assorted cutters; remove excess dough. Paint assorted designs on cookies with Egg Yolk Paint, using a small paintbrush.
6. Bake at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for 9 to 10 minutes.
7. Remove to wire racks to cool. Repeat procedure with remaining dough.
8. Combine egg yolk and water; mix well. Divide mixture into several custard cups; tint as desired with paste food coloring. Cover until ready to use. If paint thickens, add a few drops of water and mix well.