If you have a soft spot for simple yet utterly delicious treats, this Butter Cookies Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. These cookies are the perfect blend of rich, buttery flavor and tender crumb, delivering a classic cookie experience that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking to share with friends or just to indulge your sweet tooth, this Butter Cookies Recipe combines pantry-staple ingredients into something incredibly special without any fuss. From the first buttery bite, you’ll see why this recipe is a timeless favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these basic but purposeful ingredients is the first step toward cookie bliss. Each one plays a vital role in crafting the perfect texture, flavor, and appearance of your Butter Cookies Recipe.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): The star ingredient that gives these cookies their rich, melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Adds just the right amount of sweetness while contributing to a tender crumb.
- Large egg (1): Binds the dough together and adds moisture for a perfect dough consistency.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances the flavor with a warm, sweet aroma that complements the butter beautifully.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides the structure and light texture every good cookie needs.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and intensifies the buttery flavor to perfection.
How to Make Butter Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple preparation ensures your cookies bake evenly and won’t stick, keeping their charming shape intact.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, helping the cookies achieve that tender, delicate texture.
Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla Extract
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined. The egg adds moisture and binding power, while vanilla lends a lovely fragrant warmth that complements the butter beautifully.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour and salt while mixing on low speed. Be careful not to overmix the dough to keep your cookies tender and avoid a tough texture. When you see the dough just come together, you’re ready for the next step.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Transfer the dough into a piping bag fitted with a star tip for a classic, elegant look. If you prefer a simpler shape, roll the dough into small balls and gently press them with a fork to create that signature crosshatch pattern. Both options produce delicious cookies with a charming homemade touch.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Arrange the cookies about 2 inches apart on the prepared sheets and pop them into the oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges turn a light golden brown. This subtle color change guarantees a perfectly baked cookie with a slight crisp on the outside and tender center.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents breakage and finishes the resting process so each cookie is ready to be savored.
How to Serve Butter Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Although these butter cookies shine on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a quick dip in melted chocolate can add a festive touch. You might also sprinkle some finely chopped nuts or a pinch of sea salt to bring out subtle flavor contrasts.
Side Dishes
Pair your buttery cookies with a cup of freshly brewed tea or coffee for an afternoon treat. They’re also wonderful alongside a rich hot chocolate or a glass of cold milk, making them versatile for any snack or dessert moment.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the cookies with layers of fruit preserves or cream cheese frosting between them for a delightful sandwich cookie. Alternatively, arrange them artfully on a decorative platter with fresh berries and edible flowers to impress your guests visually and gastronomically.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Butter cookies keep wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain their crispness.
Freezing
You can freeze both the shaped dough and baked cookies. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months, thawing before baking. Baked cookies should be cooled completely, then stored in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers and frozen for up to two months.
Reheating
To revive that fresh-baked warmth and crisp edge, pop your cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make them too soft and chewy instead of maintaining that wonderful buttery crunch.
FAQs
Can I substitute the butter with margarine or oil?
Butter is essential in this Butter Cookies Recipe for its unique flavor and texture. Substituting with margarine or oil will change the taste and may affect the cookie’s structure, so it’s best to stick with unsalted butter.
What if I don’t have a piping bag or star tip?
No worries! You can simply roll the dough into small balls and press down gently with a fork to create the traditional look. This method is easy and produces equally delicious cookies.
How do I make my cookies more crunchy?
For crunchier cookies, bake them a minute or two longer, but watch carefully to prevent burning. Also, reducing the baking powder (if added) or increasing the sugar slightly can intensify crispiness.
Can I add flavors or mix-ins to this Butter Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! Adding lemon zest, almond extract, or even finely chopped nuts can give your cookies a delightful twist. Just keep additions modest to maintain the classic buttery flavor.
Why are my cookies spreading too much while baking?
This can happen if your butter is too soft or if the dough is too warm when you bake. Try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before shaping and baking to help the cookies hold their shape better.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a classic Butter Cookies Recipe that feels like a warm hug in cookie form. It’s simple yet indulgent, perfect for sharing or savoring on your own. Once you try this recipe, I’m confident it will become one of those beloved treasures you come back to again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let your kitchen fill with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked butter cookies today!
Print
Butter Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic buttery cookies that are crispy on the edges and soft in the center. These easy-to-make butter cookies require simple ingredients and bake quickly, perfect for any occasion or as a delightful treat with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes, to incorporate air for a tender cookie texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until the ingredients are well combined, ensuring the dough is smooth and flavorful.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just incorporated to avoid overworking the dough which can make cookies tough.
- Shape Cookies: Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip to pipe decorative shapes, or roll dough into small balls and press lightly with a fork for a classic design.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the shaped cookies about 2 inches apart on the parchment-lined baking sheets to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to set, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring the cookies firm up and maintain their shape.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for best creaming results.
- Avoid overmixing once flour is added to keep cookies tender.
- Use parchment paper to prevent cookies from sticking to the baking sheet.
- You can add sprinkles or colored sugar before baking for a festive touch.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to preserve freshness for up to a week.
