Description
Classic buttery cookies that are soft, tender, and perfect for any occasion. These butter cookies are easy to make with simple ingredients like butter, sugar, and vanilla, featuring a delicate crumb and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Ideal for tea time, gift-giving, or a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks / 227 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- â…” cup (133 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large egg yolks, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp kosher salt
- 2-3 tbsp whole milk, room temperature
Instructions
- Beat Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until everything is fully combined and smooth.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and kosher salt while mixing on low speed. Mix just until the dough begins to come together; avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Adjust Dough Consistency: If the dough feels too stiff or difficult to handle, add whole milk one tablespoon at a time. The dough should be pliable but still slightly sticky.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Shape Cookies: Use a piping bag fitted with a star tip to pipe the dough onto the baking sheet in decorative shapes like swirls or rosettes. Alternatively, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them on the baking sheet, pressing slightly to flatten.
- Bake: Bake cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the edges are just lightly golden.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing them to firm up.
Notes
- Make sure the butter and egg yolks are at room temperature to ensure smooth mixing.
- If the dough is too sticky after adding milk, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- You can decorate the cookies with sprinkles or colored sugars before baking for festive occasions.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a richer flavor, consider using vanilla bean paste or almond extract as a variation.
