Chocolate Butter Cookies

1/2 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup butter, softened
1 egg yolk
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

In a large bowl combine all ingredients except flour and cocoa. Beat at medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2 to 3 minutes). Gradually add flour and cocoa until well mixed (about 2 to 3 minutes). Shape rounded teaspoonsful as desired (1-inch balls, 2- to 3-inch logs, balls flattened, balls with indentations, etc.) or use a cookie press. Place 1 inch apart on cookie sheets. Bake for 7 to 9 minutes or until set. Cool.

Decorate with melted chocolate chips, melted almond bark, nuts, colored sugars, candied fruit, candies, maraschino cherries, etc.

Makes 3 dozen.