Use an electric mixer to beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, resembling whipped frosting.

Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Mix until well blended.

In a separate bowl, stir together the flour and salt. Slowly add the dry mix to the wet ingredients while mixing until a soft dough forms.

Divide the dough into two flat discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for about 1 hour.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Flour your work surface and rolling pin. Roll the chilled dough to 1/4-inch thickness and cut out shapes using cookie cutters.

Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 9 to 11 minutes, until edges show the slightest golden color.

Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.