Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Granulated sugar for sprinkling (optional)
  • Royal Icing (optional)
  • Sprinkles (optional)

Instructions:

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