Christmas Cookies with Almond Extract
These tender Christmas cookies feature a distinct almond flavor in both the dough and the accompanying icing ingredients. The butter and sugar are creamed to create a light texture, while the shaped dough is gently flattened before a brief bake to help the cookies remain soft rather than dry.
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Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 2 teaspoons almond extract for a prominent almond taste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour with King Arthur all-purpose flour specified as the preferred choice
- 1 large egg brought to room temperature
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature for easier creaming
For the Icing
- 2 tablespoons whole milk preferred for a richer consistency
- 1 1/2 teaspoons almond extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar sifted to encourage a smooth finish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) so it is fully heated by the time the cookie dough is ready for baking.
- Place the softened butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl. Beat them together until the mixture becomes pale, airy, and fluffy.
- Add the room-temperature egg and almond extract to the creamed butter mixture. Continue mixing until the wet ingredients are thoroughly and evenly incorporated.
- Add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix just until the ingredients come together into a smooth, uniform cookie dough.
- Portion the dough and roll it into balls approximately 1 inch in diameter. Arrange the dough balls on a baking sheet, then gently press each one with the flat bottom of a glass to form an even disc.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8 minutes. Avoid extending the baking time unnecessarily, as overbaking may cause the cookies to become dry.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and transfer them to a cooling rack. Allow them to cool before serving.
Notes
- Do not overbake the cookies; the specified short baking period helps preserve their tender texture.
- The original recipe provides the ingredients for an almond-flavored icing but does not include preparation or application directions for the icing.