Susan and Michael's Paint Brush Cookies

Preheat the oven to 375°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Cream together the shortening and sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined and the mixture is smooth.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a thick dough forms.

Add water one tablespoon at a time, stirring gently until the dough reaches a consistency suitable for piping—it should be stiff but pliable.

Transfer the dough to a pastry bag fitted with a round or fluted tip and pipe 3-4 inch strips onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cookies are lightly golden at the edges.

Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.