Irresistibly Melt-in-Your-Mouth Italian Christmas Cookies

Ingredients:

- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

- 3/4 cup granulated sugar

- 2 large eggs

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon baking powder

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

- For Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons milk or water, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

- Sprinkles (optional)

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, 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.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

5. Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

7. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.

8. Dip the bottom of a glass in sugar and gently press each cookie to flatten slightly.

9. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

10. Let cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

11. While cookies cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk/water, and vanilla extract for the glaze. Add more liquid for a thinner glaze, or more powdered sugar for a thicker one.

12. Dip or drizzle the cooled cookies with glaze and add sprinkles if desired. Let the glaze set before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook/Chill Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 65 minutes

Servings: 24