Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened (227g)
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (300g)
  • 2 large eggs (approx. 100g)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract (7.5ml)
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract (2.5ml) (Optional)
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting (360g)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder (5g)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (2.5g)
  • Royal Icing, sprinkles, powdered sugar, etc. (Amounts will vary depending on decoration style)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using).
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
  5. Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours).
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
  7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
  8. Place the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between them. Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.
  9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Decorate with royal icing, sprinkles, powdered sugar, or any other decorations you desire!