13. Eggnog Cookies

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup butter, softened
2 cups sugar
5 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1 cup eggnog
1 egg white, lightly beaten
1 tbsp water
colored sugar crystals

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
2. Beat butter at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add 2 cups sugar, beating well.
3. Combine flour, soda, and nutmeg; add to butter mixture alternately with eggnog, beginning and ending with flour mixture.  Cover and chill dough at least one hour.
4. Divide dough in half.  Work with one portion of dough at a time, storing remainder in refrigerator.  Roll each portion of dough to 1/8 inch thickness on lightly floured surface.  Cut with a 4-inch cookie cutter and place on lightly greased baking sheets.
5. If desired, combine egg white and water in a small bowl and brush cookies with this egg wash.  Sprinkle with colored sugar.  Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned.  Cool slightly on baking sheets and remove to wire racks to cool completely.