1cupsuperfine sugar(or granulated sugar processed in food processor for 30 seconds)
½teaspoonsalt
1large egg
1large egg yolk
2teaspoonsvanilla
½teaspoonalmond extract, optional
2 ½cupsall-purpose flour
Instructions
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the butter, sugar and salt at medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the egg yolk and beat until fully incorporated. Mix in the whole egg, vanilla and optional almond extract. Beat until full mixed. Add the flour, then beat at low speed just until combined. Be careful to not over-mix. Divide the dough in half and wrap in plastic wrap. Store in fridge until firm, at least one hour and up to 2 days.
Preheat oven to 375°F. On a floured work surface, roll the dough to ¼-inch thick, sprinkling with additional flour as needed to prevent sticking. Use cookies cutters to cut into shapes and place on parchment or silicone-lined pans. Bake until cookies appear dry on the surface and are light golden brown on the edges, about 10 minutes (or a few more for larger cookies). Let sit for 2 minutes before removing from cookie sheets. Allow to cool completely on cooling racks before decorating.
Decorate with our Easy Royal Icing recipe.
Notes
Nutrition information is based on a yield of 2 dozen cookies. Servings will vary based on size of cookie cutters used.