This recipe, by blogger Amanda Rettke from i am baker is simple, yet absolutely splendid. Buttery, crunchy, and packed full of flavor, these cookies are amazing — perfect for cutting out and decorating to make classic Christmas cookies.
To make the dough: Beat the butter and sugar until light, fluffy, and pale yellow in appearance. Add the eggs and yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition.
With the mixer on low, slowly add the vanilla and almond extracts; mix until combined. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, salt, and baking powder. With the mixer on low, slowly add to the butter mixture and mix until just combined.
Place a large piece of plastic wrap on the counter and scoop half of the dough out onto it. Gently pull the sides of the plastic up and over the dough and flatten it into a disc. Wrap dough securely and repeat with the remaining dough. Chill for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
Preheat the oven to 325°F, and line two baking sheets with parchment.
To shape and bake: Working with one piece of dough at a time, roll approximately 1/4" thick and cut out cookies. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the cookies for approximately 10 to 12 minutes, until they just barely start to turn golden on the edges and the center doesn't look moist. Remove from the oven and cool completely before decorating.
The perfect glaze for coating these cookies? Our Simple Cookie Glaze, which dries firm and shiny and makes an ideal base for sprinkles, piping, or other decorations.
