SUGAR COOKIES

2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1 egg white beaten with 1 teaspoon cold water
Measure sifted flour and resift three times with the baking powder and salt.
Cream butter and sugar well; add egg and beat until smooth and fluffy.
Add vanilla and almond; then add flour and mix until smooth.
Chill dough.
Shape into walnut-sized balls and press out with a fork or a flat-bottomed glass.
Brush cookies with egg white/water mixture and sprinkle with sugar or nuts.
Bake at 400° for about 10 minutes until delicately browned.