Best Sugar Cookies Ever

Everyone loves these cookies! The secret is using real butter and the addition of almond extract. Many sugar cookie recipes call for lemon zest or vanilla extract, which can be tasty as well, but almond really does the trick. Most people really like the flavor of almonds and don’t come across it often, making these cookies a special treat.


Amy’s Favorite Sugar Cookies Recipe

The recipe is practically fool-proof. Be sure to chill the dough, as indicated. Because real butter is used, the dough needs to be cold when rolled out or it will become too soft.

2 1/2 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup butter
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
1/4 teaspoon almond extract

1. Sift flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.

2. Cream butter and sugar in a mixing bowl. Add eggs, one at a time, and almond extract. Blend well. Mixing on low, gradually add sifted dry ingredients. Scrape down sides and shape dough into a flattened ball.

3. Cover dough with plastic wrap and chill for one hour.

4. Preheat oven to 375. Roll out dough, a fourth at a time, on a well-floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut out with desired cookie cutters.

5. Place on an ungreased baking sheet and bake for 7-9 minutes, removing when cookies have puffed up and before edges brown. Transfer cookies to cooling rack. Cool completely before frosting.

Easy Almond Buttercream Frosting

4 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 teaspoon almond extract
2-3 Tablespoons milk

In a medium bowl, combine butter and 2 cups powdered sugar. Mix well. Blend in 1 tablespoon of milk and 1 teaspoon almond extract. Add remaining powdered sugar and mix. Blend in enough milk to achieve spreading consistency. Add food coloring, if desired.

After frosting cookies, let frosting “set” for at least 30 minutes. Store in an airtight container with waxed paper between layers. These cookies freeze well.