Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and add it to the butter mixture.

In another bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing well.

Add the milk and vanilla or almond flavoring and mix until a dough forms.

Divide the dough into two equal portions.

Spread each portion into a greased and floured bread pan, forming flat loaves.

Bake for about 30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Remove from oven and let cool slightly.

While still warm, cut the loaves into oblong strips (rusks).

Place the strips on a baking sheet and return them to the oven.

Turn off the oven heat and let the rusks dry completely in the residual heat. This will take about an hour, or until they are crisp and dry.