Ingredients:

  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 egg, large
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Colored sugar or sprinkles for topping
  • Royal icing (for detailed decoration)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Mix in egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until well combined.
  5. Slowly incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until a dough forms.
  6. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  7. On a floured surface, roll out chilled dough to about ¼ inch thickness.
  8. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on a prepared baking sheet.
  9. Sprinkle with colored sugar or press sprinkles into the tops.
  10. Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
  11. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.