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:
- Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla and almond extracts (if using).
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days).
- 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.
- Place cookies on prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cookies are cooling, prepare the frosting. Cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Gradually add the milk (or cream) and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. Add food coloring, if using.
- Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them with the prepared frosting and decorate with sprinkles.