Almond Vanilla-Bean Cut-Out Cookies

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Whisk together the flour and baking powder. Set aside.

Cream together the butter and sugar until completely blended. Add in the egg, vanilla bean paste and almond extract. Beat until combined.

Add the flour in 3 additions, mixing on low. The dough will be thick and the last bits of flour may need to be stirred or kneaded in by hand.

Roll out on a floured surface with a floured rolling pin to about 3/8 to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut with cookie cutters and transfer to a baking sheet.

Place cookie sheet (with cookies) in the freezer for at least 5 minutes before baking.

Bake for about 10 minutes, depending on the size of the cookie cutter. Transfer to cooling racks and let cool completely.

Once cooled, decorate as desired with royal icing.