In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, and beat until fully incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch, and cut out desired shapes.
Place the cut-out shapes onto the prepared baking sheets and sprinkle with colored sugar, if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.