Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins | Chill Time: 1 hour | Yields: ~24 cookies

Ingredients
For the Cookies:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Royal Icing:
3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
2 large egg whites (or 2 tablespoons meringue powder + 2 tablespoons water)
1 teaspoon vanilla or almond extract
Food coloring gels (green, red, and gold)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg, vanilla, and almond extract (if using), mixing until combined.
Gradually add the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface.
Use Christmas tree cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Transfer to prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Royal Icing
In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and egg whites (or meringue powder mixture) until smooth.
Add vanilla extract. If the icing is too thick, add a little water (1 teaspoon at a time).
Divide into bowls, add food coloring gels (green, red, gold), and mix well.
Step 5: Decorate the Cookies
Use piping bags or squeeze bottles to outline and flood the cookies with green and white icing.
Add decorative dots, snowflakes, and gold accents.
Use edible gold dust or sprinkles for an elegant touch. Allow icing to set for at least 2 hours.
Tips:
For clean edges, chill the cut-out cookies before baking.
Add edible gold dust with a small brush for a festive sparkle.
Enjoy these dazzling and delicious holiday cookies!