Cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Add in the flour, marzipan, vanilla extract, egg yolks, salt, and optional almond extract. Mix until just combined.

Shape the dough into a flat disc, wrap in cling film, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Flour your work surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.

Cut out festive shapes with cookie cutters and arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, until lightly golden around the edges. Let cool on the sheet for a couple of minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze once cooled, if desired.