This is my favorite recipe for sugar cookies. Its from an issue of Paula Deen’s baking magazine that I got a few years ago. The secret ingredient is almond extract. Here are the ingredients I used:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder (My baking powder and baking soda containers have plastic lids, but I refill them with baking soda and baking powder that I buy in bulk.)
• 1/2 tsp salt

Beat sugar and butter at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy.

Beat in eggs, vanilla extract and almond extract.

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

Gradually add flour mixture to sugar mixture, mixing until combined.

Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and split in half (I froze one half for later). Roll out one half to about 1/4 inch thickness.

Cut out shapes with a cookie cutter. I used a heart shaped cookie cutter since I made these for Valentine’s Day. Put the cookies on a greased baking sheet. You can also use parchment paper. I used a Silpat. Bake the cookies for about ten minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.

Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy! 🙂