Make the Cookies:
- Prepare Dough:
- In a large bowl or stand mixer, cream butter and powdered sugar for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Mix in vegetable oil until smooth.
- Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- Sift in flour, baking powder, and salt. Fold into the wet mixture until a dough forms.
- Chill dough in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
- Preheat & Shape Cookies:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone liner.
- Use a cookie scoop to portion 4-tablespoon balls of dough onto the baking sheet, spaced at least 2 inches apart.
- Press each ball gently with the bottom of a jar or measuring cup dusted with powdered sugar to flatten to about ½ inch thick.
- Bake:
- Bake cookies for 10-12 minutes, until the tops are set and no longer glossy. They may look slightly underdone but will firm up as they cool.
- Cool:
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Buttercream Frosting:
- Mix Ingredients:
- Combine melted butter and powdered sugar in a bowl. Beat with an electric mixer until fluffy.
- Mix in almond extract and salt until smooth.
- Adjust Consistency:
- Add heavy cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the frosting is thick but smooth.
- For pink frosting, mix in 1-2 drops of red food coloring until desired color is achieved.
Decorate the Cookies:
- Once cookies are completely cooled, spread or pipe the frosting onto each cookie.
- Add sprinkles or decorations if desired.