Soft Christmas Cookies
Ingredients:
• 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• 4 tablespoons milk
For the Icing:
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 4 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Food coloring and sprinkles (optional)
Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until combined. If the dough is too sticky, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes.
5. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Cut into festive shapes using cookie cutters, then place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets.
6. Bake for 6-8 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. To make the icing, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Add food coloring if desired. Once the cookies are cool, spread or pipe the icing on top and decorate with sprinkles.
