Description

This classic Butter Cookies recipe delivers tender, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth treats perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and bake, these cookies combine softened unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and all-purpose flour into delightful little bites ideal for holidays, tea time, or gifting. Customize them with chocolate dips or flavorful extracts for a personal touch.

Ingredients

Butter Cookie Ingredients

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup (90g) powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour

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Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined, which helps create a tender texture in the cookies.
Add Vanilla and Salt: Mix in the vanilla extract and salt to the creamed butter and sugar to enhance the cookie flavor.
Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, stirring gently just until the dough begins to come together. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
Chill Dough if Needed: If the dough feels too soft to handle, refrigerate it for 20–30 minutes to firm up, making it easier to shape.
Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls or use a cookie press to shape them into your preferred designs. Place the cookies about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow for spreading.
Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, indicating they are perfectly baked.
Cool Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, which prevents breakage and helps them set.

Notes

For a festive twist, dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate or sprinkle colored sugar on top before baking.
Try adding lemon zest or almond extract to the dough to create flavorful variations.
Store baked cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to one week.