Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies

Source: Jan Taylor

1/2 cup butter
1 (3 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
2 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
1/2 cup powdered sugar

In a large mixing bowl combine butter and cream cheese. Beat with an electric mixer on medium to high for 30 seconds. Add 1 cup of the flour, sugar, egg, baking powder, vanilla extract and almond extract; beat until combined. Stir in remaining 1 cup flour. Divide in half. Cover dough and chill for 1 to 2 hours or until firm.

On a lightly floured surface, roll one portion of chilled dough at a time to 1/4-inch thickness. Using cookie cutters, cut into desired shapes. Use a drinking straw to make decorative holes or hanging holes. Transfer cutouts to an ungreased cookie sheet.

Bake in a 350 degree F oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are light brown and cookies are slightly puffed. Transfer cookies to a wire rack, cool thoroughly. Use a sifter to sprinkle with powdered sugar just before serving.

Makes 3 dozen.