Rainbow Rounds

Perfect for bake exchanges because it makes a huge batch! From Parents Magazine December 2003. Prep time does not include chilling the dough.

• Ready In: 45 mins
• Yields: 12 dozen

Ingredients

• 2  cups butter, softened
• 2 1⁄4 cups sugar
• 3  egg yolks
• 1  large egg
• 1  tablespoon vanilla
• 1  teaspoon salt
• 5 1⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1⁄2 cup  red  colored crystal sugar
• 1⁄2 cup  orange  colored crystal sugar
• 1⁄2 cup  yellow  colored crystal sugar
• 1⁄2 cup  green  colored crystal sugar
• 1⁄2 cup  blue  colored crystal sugar
• 1⁄2 cup  purple  colored crystal sugar

Directions

1. In large bowl, with mixer on high, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add egg yolks, egg, vanilla, and salt, and beat well to combine.
2. With mixer on low, gradually beat in flour. Divide dough into 6 equal pieces, roll each piece into an 8-inch log, and chill 15-20 minutes. Working with 1 roll at a time, roll in 1 color of crystal sugar and then wrap in saran wrap. Continue until all are rolled in colored sugar and wrapped.
3. Refrigerate completed rolls for 3 hours or overnight.
4. Heat oven to 350°F.
5. Cut logs into 1/4 inch thick slices, and place on greased baking sheet 1/2 inch apart. Bake 12 to 16 minutes, until golden. Let cool 5 minutes on baking sheet, transfer to wire rack, and let cool completely. Repeat with remaining dough, Makes about 12 dozen cookies.