Easy 3-ingredient sugar cookie recipe

0 Preheat oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
1 In a large bowl or stand mixer, cream the butter and sugar until smooth and slightly fluffy, about 2 minutes.
2 Mix in almond extract, if using.
3 Add flour and mix on low speed just until the dough comes together. Do not knead.
9 If the dough feels very soft or sticky, refrigerate it for 15-30 minutes before baking.
4 Scoop dough into 11 portions using a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop.
5 Gently flatten each mound slightly with your palm or the bottom of a glass.
6 Place cookies about 2½ inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
7 Bake for 12–14 minutes, until the edges are set and the tops look matte but not browned.
8 Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.