Spicy Ginger Sugar Cookies

In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking soda, salt and pepper. Mix well and set aside. In a large bowl, combine butter, sugar, egg, ginger and almond extract. Using a hand-held mixer, beat on medium speed until creamy. Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing after each addition until just combined. Using your hands, form a large dough ball and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside. Place half of the dough between two sheets of wax paper. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough so that it is ½-inch thick. Press cookie cutters into the dough and remove excess. Place cookies onto prepared baking sheets and decorate, if desired. Re-roll the excess dough and repeat process. Bake in preheated oven for 11 to 13 minutes.