Butter Cookies

Directions

1. 1
   Work butter in bowl until creamy; gradually add sugar and beat until fluffy.
2. 2
   Add the whole egg, egg yolk, vanilla and almond extract; beat thoroughly.
3. 3
   Add flour and mix well.
4. 4
   Chill at least 2 hours or longer.
5. 5
   Heat oven to 350°.
6. 6
   Divide dough into 4 equal portions and roll out 1 portion at a time, leaving remainder in refrigerator.
7. 7
   Place dough on floured board; cover with a sheet of floured waxed paper to prevent sticking and roll out 1/8-inch thick.
8. 8
   Carefully remove waxed paper and cut dough into desired shapes with a floured cookie cutter.
9. 9
   Place cookies 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
10. 10
    Continue rolling and cutting until all the dough is used.
11. 11
    Beat together the egg and water and brush over tops of unbaked cookies before garnishing with nuts, cherries and colored sugar.
12. 12
    Bake 10 to 12 minutes.
13. 13
    Cool on wire racks.
14. 14
    Makes about 3 1/2 dozen cookies.