Butter Cookies

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Butter cookies are the classic treat that never fails to bring comfort and joy. These cookies are all about simplicity, showcasing the rich, buttery goodness that melts in your mouth with every bite. The perfect balance of sweetness and a subtle, delicate texture makes them irresistibly good. Whether you enjoy them with your morning coffee or as an afternoon snack, each bite offers a delightful burst of buttery warmth that feels both indulgent and familiar.

I first fell in love with butter cookies when I tried a batch made by a family member. The fragrance of freshly baked butter filling the kitchen was unforgettable. The cookies were tender, with a slight crisp edge, and a satisfying richness that felt like a cozy hug. What I love about butter cookies is how versatile they can be—you can enjoy them plain, add a hint of vanilla, or sprinkle some sugar crystals on top for a subtle sparkle. No matter how you enjoy them, butter cookies always offer that timeless taste of comfort and simplicity.

Perfect for:

  • Afternoon tea
  • Holiday gifting
  • Birthday treats
  • Baby showers
  • Any time snack

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why these Butter Cookies will become your go-to cookie recipe:

  • Buttery Perfection: The rich, buttery flavor melts in your mouth with every bite.
  • Simple Ingredients: Made with basic pantry staples you likely already have.
  • Quick and Easy: Simple steps mean you can make cookies in under an hour.
  • Versatile Shapes and Designs: Customize with cookie cutters and icing for any occasion.
  • Perfect Texture: A delightful balance of crumbly and tender in every bite.
  • Easy to Customize: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or jam to suit your taste.
  • Beautiful Presentation: Decorate with icing, sprinkles, or powdered sugar for a polished look.
  • Gift-Worthy Treats: Package these cookies in jars or boxes for a thoughtful present.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Dough can be prepared and stored in the fridge ahead of time.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Classic: A treat that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Preparation and Baking Time

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Chilling Time: 30 minutes (optional)
  • Baking Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 100-120 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 2g, Carbs: 14g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

For the Butter Cookies:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Optional Add-Ins and Toppings:

  • Chocolate chips
  • Chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds)
  • Jam (for jam-filled cookies)
  • Sprinkles
  • Icing or powdered sugar

Ingredient Highlights

  • Unsalted Butter: Provides a rich, creamy, and authentic buttery taste.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm and aromatic depth of flavor.
  • Granulated Sugar: Creates the perfect sweetness and crisp texture.
  • All-Purpose Flour: The foundation for tender and stable cookies.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

  1. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  2. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, adding vanilla extract after.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
  4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
  5. Chill the Dough (Optional): Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm it up.

Shape and Bake the Cookies:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Roll and Cut Shapes: Roll out the dough on a floured surface and use cookie cutters to create shapes.
  3. Arrange on Baking Sheets: Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
  4. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
  5. Cool: Remove cookies from the baking sheet and cool on wire racks.

Decorate the Cookies (Optional):

  1. Apply Icing: Drizzle icing or pipe it onto cookies.
  2. Add Sprinkles: Decorate with sprinkles or powdered sugar for a festive touch.
  3. Add Jam (If Desired): Fill cookies with jam for a delightful twist.

How to Serve

Here are 10 ways to enjoy your Butter Cookies:

  • Classic Tea-Time Treat: Serve with tea or coffee.
  • Holiday Gift Boxes: Package in decorative jars or boxes as a thoughtful gift.
  • Special Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, baby showers, and parties.
  • Decorated Platters: Arrange cookies beautifully on a platter for a stunning presentation.
  • With Hot Chocolate: A cozy pairing for a cold winter night.
  • DIY Cookie Sandwiches: Use jam or buttercream to make sandwich cookies.
  • Festive Decor: Add icing designs to match holiday or event themes.
  • Cookie Tray Mix: Include different shapes and sizes for a unique assortment.
  • Party Favors: Distribute cookies as party giveaways.
  • Afternoon Delight: Enjoy with a glass of milk for a classic treat.

Additional Tips

  • Use Quality Butter: Use high-quality butter, as it greatly affects the flavor and texture of the cookies.
  • Chill the Dough: Chill your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This prevents the cookies from spreading too much.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure other ingredients, like eggs and vanilla extract, are at room temperature for even mixing.
  • Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure precise proportions for consistent results.
  • Sift the Flour: Sift the flour before mixing to prevent lumps and create a lighter, smoother dough.
  • Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking trays with parchment paper to prevent cookies from sticking and to ensure even baking.
  • Chill Cookie Cutters: If using cookie cutters, chill them before cutting shapes. This ensures cleaner, sharper edges.
  • Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can result in dense, tough cookies.
  • Customize with Flavors and Toppings: Add extras like vanilla, almond extract, chocolate chips, or sprinkles to create unique variations.
  • Bake at the Right Temperature: Bake cookies at the recommended temperature (usually around 350°F or 175°C) and avoid opening the oven door too often, as it can affect baking consistency.

Recipe Variations

  • Vanilla Butter Cookies: Add an extra dose of vanilla for a richer flavor.
  • Chocolate Chip Butter Cookies: Mix in chocolate chips for a classic twist.
  • Nutty Butter Cookies: Add walnuts or almonds for a satisfying crunch.
  • Jam-Filled Butter Cookies: Use your favorite jam for a fruity surprise.
  • Lemon Zest Butter Cookies: Add lemon zest for a refreshing citrus flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Coffee-Infused Cookies: Mix in a teaspoon of espresso powder for a mocha twist.
  • Sprinkled Butter Cookies: Decorate with colorful sprinkles for added fun.
  • Mini Butter Cookies: Make smaller versions for delicate bites.
  • Mint Butter Cookies: Add peppermint extract for a cool twist.

Special Equipment

  • Cookie Cutters: For fun shapes and festive designs.
  • Parchment Paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to baking trays.
  • Rolling Pin: For rolling out dough evenly.
  • Electric Mixer: Creams butter and sugar effortlessly.
  • Baking Sheets: For baking cookies evenly.
  • Cooling Racks: Allows cookies to cool without sogginess.
  • Spatula: For easy cookie transfer from baking sheets.
  • Icing Piping Bag: Optional, for detailed icing decoration.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
    Yes, but reduce or omit the salt in the recipe.
  2. How long can I store these cookies?
    Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
  3. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
    Yes, wrap it well in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
  4. What’s the secret to crumbly cookies?
    Properly creamed butter and a good ratio of flour provide that perfect crumbly texture.
  5. Can I add chocolate chips?
    Absolutely! Add chocolate chips to the dough to your heart’s content.
  6. What’s the best way to cut shapes with cookie cutters?
    Chill the dough first to ensure clean, sharp edges.
  7. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
    Yes, substitute with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
  8. Should the cookies be hard or soft?
    This recipe makes cookies with a tender, crumbly texture.
  9. What can I substitute for vanilla extract?
    Almond extract or citrus zest work well as alternatives.
  10. Can I decorate cookies in advance?
    Yes! Decorate after baking and store them in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Butter Cookies are a classic treat that brings together the perfect balance of buttery richness and delicate sweetness. These cookies offer a delightful crunch with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that is simply irresistible. Whether you enjoy them as a midday snack, with your cup of coffee, or as a special treat to share with friends and family, these cookies never fail to bring joy and comfort.

Easy to make and endlessly customizable, butter cookies are a blank canvas for creativity. You can add your favorite flavors, like vanilla, almond, or lemon zest, and even toss in nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for added texture and taste. Their simple elegance and versatility make butter cookies a timeless favorite that can suit any mood or occasion.

I can’t wait to see your butter cookies creations! Share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful and delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this classic treat your own!

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