Preparation Steps

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
• In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
• Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined. If desired, add red or green food coloring to tint the dough.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
• Divide dough into two equal portions. Roll each portion between parchment paper to about 1/4-inch thickness.
• Use Christmas-themed cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Place cookies on prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
• Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
• Once cooled completely, decorate with royal icing and sprinkles as desired. Allow icing to harden before storing.