Best Butter Cookies Recipe

Buttery, crumbly, and irresistibly delicious, these butter cookies are a classic treat that everyone loves. Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday cookie tray or as a simple snack to enjoy with coffee, this easy recipe will help you create melt-in-your-mouth cookies that are perfect for any occasion.

What Are Butter Cookies?

Butter cookies are a type of simple yet luxurious cookie made with basic pantry ingredients like butter, sugar, and flour. Known for their rich, buttery flavor and tender texture, these cookies can be shaped, piped, or rolled, making them incredibly versatile for decorative occasions or everyday indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Customizable: Shape, pipe, or decorate them to suit any occasion.
• Perfect Texture: Buttery and tender, they pair beautifully with tea or coffee.
• Great for Gifting: Their elegant simplicity makes them a popular gift choice during holidays.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (90g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step ensures a delicate, airy texture.
3. Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Shaping the Cookies

• Option 1 (Piped Cookies): Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip and pipe shapes onto the prepared baking sheets.
• Option 2 (Log and Slice): Roll the dough into a log, chill for 20–30 minutes, and slice into rounds.
• Option 3 (Cut-Out Shapes): Chill the dough, roll it out, and use cookie cutters to create shapes.

Baking

1. Arrange the shaped cookies on the parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving a small gap between each.
2. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just golden.
3. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets before transferring to an airtight container or decorating as desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
• Serve on a holiday cookie platter alongside gingerbread and sugar cookies.
• Add a drizzle of melted chocolate or sprinkle with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To maintain freshness, place a piece of parchment paper between layers.

Freezing Instructions

• Unbaked Dough: Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before shaping and baking.
• Baked Cookies: Freeze the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Add a layer of melted dark or white chocolate.
• Lemon Butter Cookies: Substitute vanilla extract with lemon zest and juice.
• Gluten-Free Version: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan Alternative: Use vegan butter and a plant-based powdered sugar.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe.

Why is my dough too soft to handle?
Chill the dough for 15–20 minutes to make it easier to work with.

Can I add decorations before baking?
Absolutely! Sprinkle with colored sugar or press a candied cherry into the center before baking.

These best butter cookies are everything you need for a perfect homemade treat—simple, delicious, and beautifully versatile. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and share your creations with family and friends!

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