Ingredients:
For the Cookies:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze:
2 cups powdered sugar
3-4 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract
Sprinkles (for decoration)
Directions:
Prepare the Cookie Dough:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky.
Shape and Bake the Cookies:
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Alternatively, you can shape them into small logs or twists for a more traditional look.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden but the tops are still pale. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Glaze:
In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and extract until smooth and of drizzling consistency. If the glaze is too thick, add more milk a teaspoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Glaze and Decorate:
Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off.
Place the glazed cookies back on the wire rack and immediately sprinkle with colorful sprinkles before the glaze sets.
Serve:
Allow the glaze to set completely before serving or storing.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Bake Time: 10 minutes per batch | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 24 cookies | Calories: Approximately 120 kcal per cookie