1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
1 egg
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1/2 tsp. almond extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. cream of tartar
granulated sugar

Mix thoroughly butter, confectioners' sugar, egg, vanilla and almond extracts. Blend in flour, baking soda and cream of tartar. Cover dough with Saran or plastic wrap and chill in refrigerator for 2 to 3 hours.

Preheat oven to 375°F. Divide dough in half. Roll each half 3/16-inch thick on lightly floured cloth covered board. Cut into desired shapes; sprinkle with granulated sugar. Place on lightly greased baking sheet.

Bake at 375°F for 7 to 8 minutes or until light brown on edge.

ICING:

1 cup confectioners' sugar
2 1/2 tbsp. light cream or
1 1/2 tbsp. milk + 1 tsp. vanilla
food coloring (optional)

Mix confectioners' sugar, light cream (or milk and vanilla) until smooth. Stir in few drops food coloring, if desired (red or blue). No need to chill in refrigerator, just apply to cookies.

Top it off with an American flag pattern or anything that has to do with the Fourth of July!

Enjoy!

Submitted by: Lauren!