Step 1

In a large bowl on medium speed, beat the butter and sugar together until creamy.

Step 2

Then beat in the egg and almond extract.

Step 3

Slowly add the sifted flour and baking powder in a little at a time until combined.

Step 4

Make sure everything is combined.

Step 5

Turn the dough out on a cutting board and shaped it into a disc.

Step 6

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate an hour.

Step 7

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough.

Step 8

Arrange the cookie cutters on top of the dough and cut out the shapes.

Step 9

Repeat until there is no dough left.

Step 10

Place the cookies on parhcment lined baking sheets.

Step 11

Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden.

Step 12

Combine the ingredients together for the icing.

Step 13

Gently dip the front of the cookies in the icing and place on top of a cooling rack that is on top of a baking tray lined with parchment paper so the cookies can drip.

Step 14

Sprinkle a little of the colored sugar on top of the cookies and allow them to dry completely.

Step 15

Once the icing has dried completely, begin stacking the cookies starting with the largest star first and work your way up to the top finishing with the smallest star. Use a little more of the green icing to attach the small star so it stands on the top of the tree. Hold it in place for a few minutes until the icing dries.