For the cookies (makes ~10):
½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature (not melted—cool to touch, dents when pressed)
½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar, sifted
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
¼ tsp almond extract (optional but recommended—omit for nut-free)
¾ cup (95 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
¾ cup (30 g) fine panko breadcrumbs (not coarse—look for “super fine” or pulse regular panko 3–4 times in a blender)
For the garnish:
1½ cups (180 g) powdered sugar, sifted
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep & preheat: Position oven racks in upper and lower thirds. Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment (no greasing).
Cream with care: In a stand mixer or bowl with hand mixer, beat butter and powdered sugar on medium-high 3–4 minutes—until pale, fluffy, and completely smooth. Scrape bowl and beater well.
Add extracts: Mix in vanilla and almond extract until just combined.
Incorporate dry: In a separate bowl, whisk flour and panko. Add to butter mixture in two additions, mixing on low just until no dry streaks remain—do not overmix. Dough will be soft but hold together when pressed.
Shape gently: Divide dough into 10 equal portions (about 35 g each). Roll into smooth balls, then flatten lightly into ½-inch-thick disks (1½ inches wide). Do not over-compress—this ensures tender texture.
Bake for perfection: Arrange 5 cookies per sheet, spaced 2 inches apart. Bake 13–15 minutes—rotating sheets front-to-back and top-to-bottom at the halfway mark—until edges are just golden and tops remain pale ivory. Underbake slightly—they firm as they cool.
Cool strategically: Let rest on baking sheets 10 minutes—this sets structure. Transfer to wire racks to cool completely before garnishing.
Garnish (The Magic Touch)
When cookies are cool to the touch but still faintly warm inside (~20–25 minutes post-oven), place powdered sugar in a shallow bowl.
Roll each cookie gently but thoroughly until fully coated. For a rustic, snow-dusted look, roll once; for full coverage, roll twice.
Let sit 5 minutes—the residual warmth helps sugar adhere without dissolving.
Tips for Perfect Gravy
(Note: These are intentionally un-glazed—but for a citrus-kissed variation, mix 1 tsp lemon or orange zest into the sugar before rolling.)
Serving Suggestions
