If you’re looking for a classic treat that’s both irresistibly tender and delightfully buttery, this Drop Butter Cookie Recipe is exactly what you need to have in your baking arsenal. These cookies come together easily with simple pantry staples and deliver that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture that brings back cozy memories of homemade sweets. The balance of brown and granulated sugar adds a deep sweetness and subtle chewiness, while the vanilla and buttery goodness make every bite an absolute delight. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this Drop Butter Cookie Recipe is pure comfort on a plate and sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just the right ingredients is what makes this recipe so successful. Each component plays a vital role in creating the cookie’s rich flavor, tender crumb, and beautiful light golden color. Plus, they’re all easy to find and likely already in your kitchen!
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): The star of the show that adds creaminess and richness without overpowering the cookie.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a delicate crisp edge.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed): Adds moisture and depth with its slight caramel notes.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together and gives the dough structure.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Imparts a warm, aromatic hint that elevates every bite.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Builds the cookie’s body and ensures just the right tenderness.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly for a soft, chewy texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
How to Make Drop Butter Cookie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature while you prep the dough. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper—this prevents sticking and helps the cookies bake evenly without browning too quickly on the bottom.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, use a mixer or sturdy spoon to cream the softened butter with both the granulated and brown sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step is essential as it incorporates air, making the cookies tender and airy rather than dense.
Step 3: Mix in Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg along with the vanilla extract until fully combined. The egg enriches the dough, giving structure while keeping the cookies soft, and the vanilla infuses a subtle sweetness and warmth that’s simply irresistible.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Form Dough
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet sugar-butter mixture, stirring just until the dough comes together softly. Over-mixing here can toughen the cookies, so be gentle!
Step 5: Drop the Dough onto Baking Sheets
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared pans. Space them approximately 2 inches apart to give room for spreading as they bake into perfect little rounds.
Step 6: Bake Until Lightly Golden
Bake for 10-12 minutes, watching closely for edges to turn light golden and centers to set while remaining tender. Once done, let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Drop Butter Cookie Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are delightful as-is, a sprinkle of colored sanding sugar or a dusting of powdered sugar can add a festive look and a touch of extra sweetness. For a fun twist, try adding a few mini chocolate chips or a pinch of citrus zest before baking to enhance the flavor and appearance.
Side Dishes
Pair your Drop Butter Cookie Recipe with a warm cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee for a perfectly cozy break. They also complement a cold glass of milk brilliantly, making snack time feel indulgently special. For gatherings, serve alongside a cheese platter or fresh fruit for a charming dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday or party occasions, stack these cookies with layers of frosting or jam to create delightful sandwich cookies. You can also dip one side in melted chocolate and decorate with sprinkles for an extra touch of fun and flair. Pack them in pretty tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbon for heartfelt homemade gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once fully cooled, store your leftover Drop Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and soft for up to a week, making it easy to enjoy them throughout the week or share with friends and family.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully! Simply place the unbaked cookie dough in a sealed freezer bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. Alternatively, fully baked cookies can be frozen in an airtight container and thawed at room temperature when you want a sweet treat.
Reheating
If you prefer your cookies warm, gently reheat them in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 minutes or pop a cookie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This refreshes the soft, buttery texture without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter for this Drop Butter Cookie Recipe?
Yes, you can, but be sure to reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to prevent the cookies from becoming too salty. Using unsalted butter is generally preferred for better control over seasoning.
What’s the best way to make sure my cookies don’t spread too much?
Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. Also, chilling the dough briefly before baking can help the cookies hold their shape better. Using parchment paper or silicone mats also prevents excessive spreading.
Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! This Drop Butter Cookie Recipe is versatile, and adding mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruit can give your cookies fun texture and additional flavors. Just fold them into the dough after mixing.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
This particular recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, you could experiment with a gluten-free flour blend, keeping in mind that the cookie texture may vary slightly.
How do I make these cookies more festive for holidays?
Adding colored sugar sprinkles, festive icing, or dipping them in chocolate can make these cookies perfect for any holiday celebration. You might also try incorporating a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm seasonal twist.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a classic Drop Butter Cookie Recipe that never goes out of style. It’s easy to bake, uses simple ingredients, and results in a comforting cookie that’s tender, buttery, and utterly delicious. Whether for a casual snack, a holiday treat, or a baking project to share with loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and sweet moments to your kitchen. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new go-to cookie that everyone asks for again and again!
Print
Drop Butter Cookie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 30 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These classic Drop Butter Cookies are soft, buttery, and easy to make. With a perfect balance of sweetness from granulated and brown sugars, enhanced by vanilla, they bake up golden with tender centers. Ideal for holiday treats or everyday snacking, these delightful cookies can be customized with chocolate chips or citrus zest for added flavor.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take around 2-3 minutes.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined and smooth, ensuring an even flavor throughout the dough.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the raising agent and seasoning through the flour.
- Mix Dry with Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently just until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Form and Place Dough: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden and the centers have set but remain soft.
- Cool Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely to avoid sogginess and maintain texture.
Notes
- For added variety, mix in mini chocolate chips or citrus zest directly into the dough.
- Sprinkle colored sugar on top before baking for festive decoration.
- These cookies freeze well; store them in an airtight container for up to three months.
