Step 1: Preheat Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

1. Divide the dough into two portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) to firm up.

Step 4: Roll and Cut Cookies

1. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
2. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked; they will firm up as they cool.
2. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 6: Decorate (Optional)

1. If using royal icing, beat together powdered sugar, egg whites (or meringue powder), and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust consistency with water as needed.
2. Use piping bags or a spatula to decorate cooled cookies with royal icing. Add food coloring for festive designs.

Step 7: Serve

1. Allow the icing to dry completely before serving or storing the cookies. Enjoy your festive treats!