This recipe comes from a Southern Living paperback called Christmas Cookies. You can decorate these with colored sugar crystals, assorted candies, and or sprinkles if you so desire! I have a fondness for cookies with cream cheese and enjoy these. Sometimes I use almond or anise flavoring. Note added Dec. 2013: It seems improvements are in need so I am making corrections which are my own since I cannot find the original recipe. I am sorry for the mishaps you have had with the given recipe. I may recommend dividing the dough in thirds and working with smaller amounts.