Little Shortbread Stars

Beat butter, sugar and vanilla in a large bowl with mixer on high speed until pale and fluffy. On low speed, gradually beat in flour until just blended.

Divide dough in half. Shape each portion into a 1-in.-thick disk. Wrap individually; chill at least 4 hours or until firm enough to roll out.

Heat oven to 325°F. Have ready a 1 3/4-in. star-shape cookie cutter.

On a lightly floured surface with a floured rolling pin, roll out 1 disk at a time (keep other refrigerated) to 3/8 in. thick. Cut out stars with floured cookie cutter. Place 1 in. apart on ungreased baking sheet(s). Sprinkle stars with colored sugars. Chill scraps before rerolling and cutting.

Bake 11 to 13 minutes until firm but not browned. Remove from oven and, if desired, immediately prick cookies decoratively with a wooden pick.

Transfer to a wire rack to cool.