The Ultimate Sugar Cookies

Directions

1. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together your flour, baking soda, and baking powder. This gives your cookies that perfect rise and texture. Set it aside.

3. In a large bowl, cream together your butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Add in your egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using. Continue to mix until everything is well combined.

4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with a little splash of milk. The dough should come together nicely, forming a soft, pliable consistency.

5. For the best cookie shapes, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. This will help prevent your cookies from spreading too much when baking.

6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a WÜSTHOF paring knife to cut your favorite festive shapes.

7. Place your cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between them. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.