Soft Buttermilk Cookies

Soft Buttermilk Cookies SERVINGS 36 1⁄2 cup butter, softened (no substitutes) 1 cup sugar 1 large egg 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 2 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour 1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda 1⁄2 teaspoon salt 1⁄2 cup buttermilk FROSTING 3 tablespoons butter, softened (no substitutes) 3 1⁄2 cups confectioners' sugar 1⁄4 cup milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1⁄2 cup finely chopped walnuts (optional) In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla. Combine flour, baking soda and salt; add to the creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk and mix well. Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls 2-inches apart onto greased baking sheets. Bake at 375° for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool. For frosting, combine butter, sugar, milk and vanilla in a mixing bowl; beat until smooth. Frost cookies; sprinkle with walnuts if desired.