Sugar cookie problem

[xwolfiex13x]

Hello! I have never been able to make sugar cookies from scratch. I have no idea why. I can make it fine from prepared packets, but once I try to make it from scratch, something horrible happens. They end up tasting more like biscuits. I remember that one time I had to cover them with jelly because they were just that nasty. I always follow the directions. I can make fudge, caramel, macaroons, cakes, and all other sorts of treats. Why can't I make something as simple as sugar cookies?
For the decorating, I have also tried to put icing on them. It always comes out much too sweet. Is there a certain kind of icing I need to use?


Note: I apologize for not putting this in the cookie thread, I thought that's what page I was on. Forgive me!