01 -
Cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Beat in egg, vanilla extract, almond extract if using, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Gradually combine dry ingredients into wet mixture until just blended.
02 -
Cover dough tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour for improved texture and shape retention. Scoop heaping tablespoons onto parchment-lined baking sheets and gently flatten each ball to form round cookie bases.
03 -
Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake cookies for 8 to 10 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Transfer to wire rack and cool completely before frosting.
04 -
Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fluffy. Incorporate vanilla extract fully.
05 -
Once cookies have cooled entirely, spread or pipe cream cheese frosting generously over each cookie, creating an even layer.
06 -
Decorate each frosted cookie with fresh blueberries and raspberries arranged in festive patterns. Optionally, brush fruit lightly with warmed apricot jam for added shine and moisture retention.