Festive Almond Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature, which helps in achieving a smooth dough.
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Combine Flour, Baking Powder, and Salt: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
Add Eggs and Extracts: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using), mixing until combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually Add Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Chill the Dough (Optional): If time allows, refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape better during baking.
Scoop the Dough: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Flatten the Cookies: Lightly press each dough ball down with the bottom of a glass or your fingers to flatten them slightly, as they will not spread much during baking.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
Cool: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare the Icing
Make the Icing: In a mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth. If the icing is too thick, add more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Color the Icing: Divide the icing into separate bowls and add food coloring to achieve your desired colors. Mix well.
Step 8: Decorate the Cookies
Ice the Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled completely, use a piping bag or a small offset spatula to spread or pipe the icing onto the cookies.
Add Decorations: Sprinkle with festive sprinkles or other decorations while the icing is still wet, allowing them to adhere.
Nutrition Facts (Per Cookie, based on 24 servings)
Calories: 150
Total Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 60mg
Total Carbohydrates: 22g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 2g
Note: Nutrition values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Tips for Making Festive Almond Sugar Cookies
Butter Temperature: Ensure that your butter is softened but not melted. This will help achieve the right texture in your cookies.
Cookie Thickness: For thicker cookies, keep the dough balls rounded and do not flatten them too much before baking. Adjust the baking time slightly as needed.
Decorating Ideas: Get creative with your icing! Use different colors and techniques to create designs, patterns, or even simple faces on your cookies.
Flour Measurement: When measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents packing and ensures you don’t add too much flour.
Chilling the Dough: If you’re short on time, you can skip chilling the dough, but chilled dough is easier to handle and yields better-shaped cookies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While butter gives the best flavor and texture, you can substitute margarine. However, keep in mind that it may alter the taste and consistency slightly.

2. How do I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container.

3. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time, refrigerate it for up to 2 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

4. Can I use different extracts?

Absolutely! You can replace the almond extract with other extracts like lemon or orange for a different flavor profile.

5. What if I don’t have food coloring?

You can decorate the cookies with just powdered sugar or leave them plain for a simple, elegant look. They will still taste fantastic!

Storage Tips
Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Freezing Cookies: To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at a low temperature.
Icing Storage: If you have leftover icing, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Rewhip or add a splash of milk to restore the consistency before using it again.
Conclusion
Festive Almond Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that embodies the spirit of celebration and togetherness. Their buttery texture, delightful almond flavor, and beautiful decorations make them a perfect addition to any festive gathering. Whether you bake them for a special occasion or simply to enjoy at home, these cookies are sure to bring joy to all who taste them. With their simple preparation and customizable decorations, they are a wonderful activity to do with family and friends. So roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and create some delicious memories with these festive cookies!