Preheat and Prepare:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder.

Cream Butter and Sugar:

• In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and white sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and mix well.

Combine Ingredients:

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
• Stir in the buttermilk slowly, adding enough to form a smooth, pliable dough.

Shape Cookies:

• Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
• Slightly flatten each ball with a fork or your hand, then sprinkle with colored sugar or sprinkles.

Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Decorate:

• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
• If desired, decorate with icing once completely cooled.