German Almond Cookies

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
2. Mix dry ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground almonds, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Chill the dough
   Form the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This will make the dough easier to handle and help the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
4. Shape the cookies
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Use cookie cutters to cut into desired shapes, or roll into 1-inch balls and flatten slightly.
5. Decorate and bake
   Press sliced almonds into the top of each cookie for decoration. Place cookies on prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Do not overbake, as these cookies should remain somewhat pale.
6. Cool and finish
   Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving.