Follow these easy steps to create delightful Christmas Sugar Cookies:

1. Prep the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Egg and Extracts: Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), continuing to blend until fully incorporated.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
6. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to firm up.
7. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough to about ¼ inch thickness.
8. Cut Out Shapes: Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
11. Decorate: Once cool, decorate with royal icing, colored sugar, or sprinkles as desired.

By following these steps, you’ll enjoy creating amazing Christmas Sugar Cookies that everyone will adore!