Irresistible Butter Cookies: Classic Recipe & Tips

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked butter cookies wafting through the house. Picture this: a warm kitchen filled with the sweet scent of vanilla, as golden-brown cookies cool on a rack, waiting to be devoured. brown butter snickerdoodle cookies fall cookies with maple glaze The first bite is an explosion of buttery goodness, melting in your mouth and leaving you craving another.

Butter cookies are more than just a snack; they’re a nostalgic treat that brings families together. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy afternoon with tea, these little delights have a way of making any occasion feel special. You’ll find yourself transported back to childhood days spent baking with loved ones, giggling over spilled flour and sneaking bites of cookie dough. Trust me; when you whip up these butter cookies, you’re not just baking; you’re creating memories. For more inspiration, check out this Thanksgiving stuffed mini pumpkins recipe.

I still remember the time I baked these cookies for my niece’s birthday party and watched her face light up when she took her first bite.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of our cookies; use unbleached for a richer flavor.

• Unsalted Butter: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.

• Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps achieve that lovely crisp texture.

• Egg Yolk: Using only the yolk gives our cookies richness without excess moisture.

• Vanilla Extract: Pure extract elevates the flavor profile—trust me, it’s worth it!

• Baking Powder: Just a pinch helps our cookies puff up slightly while baking.

• Salt: A little salt balances out the sweetness beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Gather Your Ingredients: Start by measuring out all your ingredients accurately; precision makes all the difference in baking. Set them aside so everything is ready for action.

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and develop that irresistible golden color.

Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, combine softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar. Beat them together until creamy and light—this takes about 3-5 minutes.

Add Egg Yolk and Vanilla: Mix in one egg yolk and pure vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The batter should smell heavenly at this point!

Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients until just combined—don’t overmix!

Scoop and Bake Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop dough balls onto a lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges turn lightly golden.

These butter cookies are simple yet delightful! You can even jazz them up by adding sprinkles or drizzling melted chocolate on top once cooled. Enjoy every crumb!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by creaming butter and sugar until fluffy, then gradually add flour. Chill the dough before baking for even better texture.

Add Your Touch

Experiment with flavorings like vanilla, almond extract, or lemon zest to elevate your butter cookies. crispy and chewy chocolate chip cookies Add chocolate chips or nuts for a delightful twist. cinnamon chip scones for breakfast.

Storing & Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Reheat briefly in the oven for that fresh-baked taste if needed.

Making these butter cookies brings back memories of baking with my grandmother. Her secret ingredient? A pinch of love—always made them extra special!

FAQ

How can I make my butter cookies softer?

Try adding an extra egg yolk or reduce the baking time slightly for softer cookies.

Can I freeze butter cookie dough?

Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to three months before baking.

What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?

Add a teaspoon of milk at a time until your dough reaches the right consistency.

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Butter Cookies

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• Author: Jessica
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Butter cookies are a delightful treat that fill your kitchen with the warm aroma of vanilla and butter. These simple yet delicious cookies boast a rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, making them perfect for any occasion—be it a holiday gathering or cozy afternoon tea. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create these nostalgic bites that will transport you back to cherished memories of baking with loved ones.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined; avoid overmixing.
6. Drop dough balls onto a lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (20g)
• Calories: 94
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 38mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 15mg