Instructions

1. 1

   Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a medium bowl until evenly combined. In a separate large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until the mixture looks pale and fluffy with no visible sugar pockets.

2. 2

   Add the egg, vanilla, and almond extract. Mix until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides of the bowl so the dough stays even.

3. 3

   Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix just until a soft dough forms. The dough should feel smooth and slightly firm, not sticky. If it clings heavily to your hands, chill it for 15 minutes before rolling.

4. 4

   Divide the dough into two discs and roll each between sheets of parchment paper to about 1/4-inch thick. Chill the rolled dough for at least 30 minutes until it feels cold and firm all the way through.

5. 5

   Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut out shapes for ties, shirts, trophies, or classic circles. Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart.

6. 6

   Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, until the edges look set and the bottoms are lightly golden. The centers should still look soft, not browned. Let the cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack.

7. 7

   Once fully cooled, decorate with royal icing or frosting. For clean tie cookies, many home bakers find it easier to outline the design first, then fill the center after a few minutes. Let the icing dry completely before stacking or packaging.