Butter cookies are a timeless treat, known for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich buttery flavor. Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a festive gathering, an afternoon snack, or a homemade gift—these cookies are as simple to make as they are delightful to eat. This easy butter cookie recipe will guide you through creating bakery-quality cookies right in your kitchen.
What Are Butter Cookies?
Butter cookies are classic European-style cookies made with a simple yet rich combination of butter, sugar, and flour. Their delicate texture and subtly sweet flavor make them versatile for serving plain or with decorative finishes like chocolate, sprinkles, or powdered sugar.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
- Quick to Make: From mixing to baking, these cookies are ready in under 30 minutes.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings, or shape them to suit any occasion.
- Perfect for Gifting: Their elegant look and delightful taste make them a thoughtful homemade gift.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150 g) sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate the Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
- Combine Flour and Salt: In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour and salt together.
- Form the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
Shaping the Cookies
- Prepare the Piping Bag: Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Alternatively, roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
- Shape the Cookies: Pipe the dough onto the baking sheets in swirls, or place the balls and press them gently with a fork to flatten slightly. Leave about 1 inch of space between cookies.
Baking
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy the cookies plain with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for an elegant finish.
- Sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a festive touch.
- Pair them with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Storing and Freezing
Storage Tips
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their crisp texture.
Freezing Instructions
- Unbaked Dough: Shape or pipe the dough onto baking sheets and freeze until firm. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag, and bake from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
- Baked Cookies: Place in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Lovers: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the flour for chocolate butter cookies.
- Lemon Zest: Mix in 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
- Nutty Delight: Press a whole almond or hazelnut into the center of each cookie before baking.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour instead of all-purpose flour.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but omit the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavor.
Why is my dough too soft to pipe?
If the dough is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to firm it up.
Can I make these cookies without a piping bag?
Absolutely! Roll the dough into small balls, then flatten them with a fork or the bottom of a glass.
This butter cookie recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves simple yet delicious baked treats. Their buttery, tender texture makes them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Give them a try, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking!
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Best Butter Cookies: The Ultimate Recipe for Classic Treats
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
Description
Classic butter cookies are buttery, tender, and melt in your mouth. Perfect for holidays, afternoon tea, or gifting, this recipe is simple and customizable to suit your tastes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150 g) sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until combined.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip and pipe into swirls on the baking sheets.
- Alternatively, roll dough into 1-inch balls and flatten slightly with a fork.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Chilling the Dough: If the dough is too soft for piping, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes.
- Variations: Add lemon zest, drizzle with melted chocolate, or dust with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 80 per serving