Lime Christmas Tea Cookies

Directions

1. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, 5-7 minutes. Beat in the lime zest, lime juice and vanilla. Gradually add flour and mix well. Beat in food coloring. Stir in pistachios. Cover and refrigerate for 4 hours or until easy to handle.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to 1/4-in. thickness. Cut with a floured 2-1/2-in. tree-shaped cookie cutter. Place 1 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350° for 8-10 minutes or until set. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.
3. In a large bowl, combine confectioners' sugar, 5 tablespoons water and the meringue powder; beat on low speed just until blended. Beat on high 4-5 minutes or until stiff peaks form. Thin with enough remaining water to achieve desired consistency. Divide in half; if desired, tint 1 portion green. Keep unused icing covered at all times with a damp cloth. If necessary, beat again on high speed to restore texture.
   Frost and decorate cookies to resemble snow-covered trees or as desired. Let stand at room temperature several hours or until frosting is dry and firm. Store in an airtight container.