Cookie

• Preheat the oven to 375°F.
• In a large mixing bowl, cream the shortening and sugar together until light and fluffy.
• Add the egg and almond extract, mixing until well combined.
• In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, salt, cream of tartar, and baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture.
• Shape the dough into balls using approximately ⅛ cup of dough per cookie. Place them on an ungreased baking sheet, leaving room for spreading.
• Bake for 12–15 minutes. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely before decorating.

Cream Cheese Frosting

• In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
• Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, about ½ cup at a time, mixing on low speed until incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
• Add the almond extract and mix until the frosting is smooth.

Assemble the Snow Globe Cookies

• Spread cream cheese frosting over each completely cooled cookie to create a snowy base.
• Arrange small edible Christmas decorations, such as Santas, candy canes, and Christmas trees, in the frosting.
• Add white sugar pearls or sprinkles to resemble snow. You can also use small, clean sprigs of rosemary for miniature Christmas trees.
• Carefully position a clear plastic half-ornament over the decorations. Gently press the rim into the frosting to help secure it.
• Allow the frosting to firm up before carefully moving the cookies. Remove the plastic domes before serving or eating.