Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Properly preheated ovens help cookies bake evenly, giving them a golden-brown finish without overcooking.

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This step ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed, which helps the cookies rise properly. Set the mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Using an electric mixer, beat 1 cup (2 sticks) of softened butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of brown sugar. Mix on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Creaming the butter and sugar properly helps create a soft, tender cookie with a slightly crisp edge.

Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon of almond extract for extra depth of flavor. The eggs add moisture and structure, while the extracts enhance the overall taste.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing at a low speed to avoid overworking the dough. Stir in 1 ½ cups of your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or crushed candy canes. Mixing at a slow pace prevents the dough from becoming too dense and tough.

Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors develop and keeps the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. If you're short on time, you can place the dough in the freezer for about 15 minutes instead.

Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each) or use cookie cutters for fun shapes. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the centers soft.

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, decorate with frosting, sprinkles, or a drizzle of melted chocolate. Crushed candy canes or colored sugar can add a festive touch.