1-First Step: Preheat and prep. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow for easy transfer. If you like perfectly round cookies, have a small plate for the granulated sugar ready for rolling the dough balls.

2-Second Step: Cream butter and sugar. In a large mixing bowl, cream 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature) with 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air for tender cookies.

3-Third Step: Add wet ingredients. Mix in 1 large egg (room temperature), 1 large egg yolk (room temperature), 1 tablespoon whole milk, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional) until smooth. Scrape the bowl as needed so everything is evenly combined.

4-Fourth Step: Combine dry ingredients. Whisk together 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled), 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon baking soda in a separate bowl. This ensures even distribution of leaveners and salt.

5-Fifth Step: Form the dough. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture on low speed until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing; stop as soon as the flour is incorporated to keep cookies tender.

6-Sixth Step: Fold in sprinkles. Gently fold in 1/2 cup red and green jimmies sprinkles so they spread evenly without breaking. Over-stirring can crush jimmies and cause color bleed.

7-Seventh Step: Scoop and sugar-roll. Scoop 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons of dough per cookie and roll into balls. Roll each ball in approximately 1/4 cup granulated sugar for a sweet, sparkly finish. Place dough balls on prepared sheets about 2 inches apart.

8-Eighth Step: Chill if needed. Optionally chill dough for 1 hour to 3 days. Chilled dough spreads less and yields thicker cookies. If chilled, let dough sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before scooping for easier portioning.

9-Ninth Step: Bake. Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 8-10 minutes. Watch for edges to set while centers remain soft. Baking time can vary by oven and cookie size; mini cookies will need less time.

10-Tenth Step: Cool and finish. Let cookies cool on the sheet for 3-5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Top each cookie with extra granulated sugar and additional sprinkles while still warm if you want a brighter, more festive appearance.