Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs (approx. 100g), at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) almond extract (optional)
  • 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon (2.5g) baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon (1.25g) salt
  • ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk
  • ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3-4 cups (360-480g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2-4 tablespoons (30-60ml) milk (or heavy cream)
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt (optional)
  • Food coloring (gel preferred) (Optional)
  • Sprinkles, for decoration

Instructions:

  1. Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla and almond extracts (if using).
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  5. Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days).
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes.
  7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  8. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. While the cookies are cooling, prepare the frosting. Cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
  10. Gradually add the milk (or cream) and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. Add food coloring, if using.
  11. Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them with the prepared frosting and decorate with sprinkles.