If you’re craving a classic treat that’s buttery, delicate, and utterly irresistible, this Butter Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. With its simple ingredients and straightforward process, it transforms ordinary pantry staples into melt-in-your-mouth delights that feel like a warm hug in cookie form. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon or a festive gathering, these butter cookies deliver satisfying sweetness with a crisp, tender texture that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Butter Cookies Recipe calls for just a handful of basics, each carefully chosen to create the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the rich creaminess of softened butter to the subtle sweetness of vanilla, every ingredient plays its part in making these cookies shine.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Using unsalted butter lets you control the salt level, plus it contributes richness and helps achieve that tender crumb.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds the right amount of sweetness and contributes to a slight crispness on the edges.
- 1 large egg: Binds the dough together and adds moisture for a soft interior.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Brings a warm, fragrant flavor that enhances the buttery notes beautifully.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cookie, providing structure without toughness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and amplifies all the flavors.
How to Make Butter Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. This little preparation step makes both baking and cleanup easier.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This takes about 2 to 3 minutes and is crucial because it incorporates air, which helps make your cookies tender with a lovely crumb. Don’t rush this part—it really makes a difference.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla Extract
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until they’re fully combined with the creamed butter and sugar. The egg adds moisture and richness while the vanilla fills your kitchen with that comforting aroma you know and love.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until everything comes together. Be careful not to overmix here—once you see no streaks of flour, stop. Overworking the dough can make your cookies tough instead of tender.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
For a classic, elegant look, transfer the dough into a piping bag fitted with a star tip and pipe small swirls onto your prepared baking sheets. If you prefer a simpler approach, roll the dough into small balls and gently press each one with a fork to create that signature crosshatch pattern.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Space your cookies about 2 inches apart to give them room to spread. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are a delicate golden brown. This timing keeps the centers soft while giving the edges just enough crispness to add contrast.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for several minutes to firm up, then transfer them carefully to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling prevents breakage and lets the flavors fully develop, ensuring each bite is as perfect as the first.
How to Serve Butter Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these butter cookies are wonderful on their own, you can dress them up by sprinkling a pinch of coarse sugar or a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving. For a festive twist, dip one edge in melted chocolate and let it set for an elegant finish.
Side Dishes
Butter cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee. For chilly days, serve alongside hot chocolate or a glass of cold milk to create that perfect sweet comfort combo everyone loves.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging your butter cookies on a decorative platter interspersed with fresh berries or edible flowers for a stunning presentation at parties or afternoon gatherings. You could also sandwich two cookies with a layer of jam or lemon curd for a delightful variation that adds a burst of fruity flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store your butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and crisp for up to a week, making them a great grab-and-go snack or a ready-made treat to share.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, these cookies freeze really well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to three months.
Reheating
To refresh frozen or stored butter cookies, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes. This makes them just as good as freshly baked, reviving their buttery aroma and soft texture.
FAQs
Can I substitute salted butter for unsalted butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but be sure to reduce or omit the added salt to avoid overly salty cookies. Unsalted butter gives you more control over seasoning, but salted works in a pinch.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make the Butter Cookies Recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. This will help keep the texture close to the original.
What piping tip works best if I want to pipe the cookies?
A star-shaped piping tip is ideal for this recipe as it creates beautiful ridges and swirls, giving your cookies that classic, elegant butter cookie appearance.
Can I add flavors or mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! While this Butter Cookies Recipe shines in its simplicity, adding chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips can introduce delightful variations. Just fold them in gently at the end of mixing.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much during baking?
Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, chill the dough briefly if needed, and avoid overmixing. Also, space cookies properly on the baking sheet to allow room for gentle spreading.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about baking classic butter cookies from scratch, and this Butter Cookies Recipe makes it easy and rewarding. Once you try these crisp-edged, tender-centered delights, they’ll quickly become a cherished staple in your baking repertoire. So go ahead, enjoy the process and share these little bites of happiness with friends and family—you deserve it!
Print
Butter Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic buttery cookies with a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a rich vanilla flavor. These easy-to-make butter cookies are perfect for tea time, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a simple, satisfying treat.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and 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, fluffy, and pale in color. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes and is essential for a tender cookie texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture by mixing until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt into the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed or fold gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough which can result in tough cookies.
- Shape the Cookies: Transfer the dough into a piping bag fitted with a star tip to pipe classic swirled cookies, or alternatively, roll the dough into small balls and press them lightly with a fork for a traditional design.
- Bake: Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheets ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart to allow spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes so they firm up; then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving to maintain crispness.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and better cookie texture.
- Avoid overmixing the dough once flour is added to keep the cookies tender.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute half the all-purpose flour with almond flour.
- Decorate cookies with colored sugar or sprinkles before baking for a festive touch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
