Step 1

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt and optional spices in a large bowl. Set aside.

Step 2

In a food processor, combine the butter and sugar and process until light and fluffy. Scrape down the sides in between mixing at least once.

Step 3

Add the egg and vanilla and process until just combined.

Step 4

Add the flour mixture and pulse until just combined. If it does not mix well in the food processor, return the dough to your mixing bowl and bring the dough together by hand.

Step 5

Turn the dough out onto a piece of parchment paper or floured surface. Form a ball and then divide the ball into two halves.

Step 6

Roll each half out to ¼ inch thickness on a sheet of parchment paper. If it’s sticky, place another piece of parchment on top and roll the dough between the two sheets of parchment.

Step 7

Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator or 15 minutes in the freezer.

Step 8

Cut out your cookies with your favorite cookie cutter and bake at 350F until golden. About 7-10 minutes.

Step 9

Repeat steps 5-8 with the scraps of dough.