Instructions: 1. BEAT butter in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add granulated sugar and beat till combined.

Beat in lime peel, the 1/4 cup lime juice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla till combined. Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. Stir in nuts and any remaining flour with a wooden spoon. Divide dough in half.

2. ROLL each half of dough 1/4-inch thick on a lightly floured surface. Cut into desired shapes using 1- or 2-inch cookie cutters. Place cutouts on ungreased cookie sheets.

3. BAKE in a 350 oven for 8 to 10 minutes or till light brown around edges.

Cool on wire racks.

4. FOR FROSTING, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, the 1 tablespoon lemon or lime juice, and the remaining 1 teaspoon vanilla with an electric mixer on medium speed till smooth; tint with green food coloring as desired.

Frost cookies. Pipe designs with white frosting, if desired.

NOTES : Shred only the green part of the lime peel; the white layer just beneath it is bitter.

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