vanilla-almond sugar cookies

I found this recipe on a blog called bake at 350 and it is a cookie that works especially well for decorating with royal icing.  The cookie is a cut out that is rolled a little thicker so as to be more sturdy.  It makes a dough that rolls and cuts easily. 

Vanilla-Almond sugar cookies

3 cups unbleached all purpose flour

2 tsp baking powder

1 cup sugar (can be sugar that has had vanilla beans stored in it)

2 sticks butter

1 egg

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp almond extract

Combine the flour and baking powder and set aside.  Cream the sugar and butter.  Add the egg and extracts and mix.  Gradually add the flour mixture and beat just until combined scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl.  Roll on a floured surface and cut into shapes.  Place on parchment lined baking sheets.  Bake at 350° for 10-12 minutes.  Let sit a few minutes on the baking sheet then transfer to a cooling rack.

ready for decorating

Source for recipe here.