I’ve been making simple butter cookies for years, and they’re a staple in our household. The recipe is easy to follow and requires only a few ingredients.
I love how the cookies turn out – they’re crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, with a subtle sweetness that’s perfect for snacking or serving to guests. My kids adore helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is a great way to get them involved in the cooking process.
We often make these cookies for special occasions, like holidays or family gatherings, but they’re also a regular treat for us on weeknights. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s so versatile – you can customize it with different flavor combinations or add-ins to keep things interesting.
My personal favorite is adding a pinch of sea salt to bring out the flavors of the butter and sugar. It’s amazing how something so simple can be so delicious and satisfying.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this simple butter cookie recipe is a must-try – it’s sure to become a favorite in your household too! The key to success lies in using high-quality ingredients and not overmixing the dough.
I’ve found that using European-style butter gives the cookies a richer flavor, while avoiding overmixing ensures they stay tender and crumbly.
Simple Butter Cookies
4.9 from 1914 votes
These classic butter cookies are crisp, tender, and melt in your mouth. Made with just a few basic ingredients, they are perfect for any occasion.
Servings: 36 cookiesCuisine: InternationalCalories: 80 kcal per cookie
🥘Ingredients
For the Cookies
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
👨🍳Directions
1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
3Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat on low speed until fully combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt, then gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms and no streaks of flour remain.
5If using a cookie press, fill the press with dough and press shapes onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
6Alternatively, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheets, then flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or a fork to create a crisscross pattern.
7Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the bottoms are lightly golden.
8The centers will still be pale and soft.
9Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
For a festive touch, sprinkle the cookies with colored sanding sugar before baking. Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Watch Video Of How Simple Butter Cookies Works
These simple butter cookies are always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a party or just need a sweet treat after dinner.
They’re easy to make and always a hit with my family and friends alike.
One of my favorite ways to serve them is with a glass of cold milk or as an accompaniment to hot coffee on chilly mornings.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Butter Cookies
Q: What type of flour should I use for this recipe?
A: For this simple butter cookie recipe, I recommend using all-purpose flour as it provides the right balance of structure and tenderness. You can also experiment with other types of flour like bread flour or cake flour, but keep in mind that they may affect the texture of your cookies.
Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
Q: How do I ensure my cookies retain their shape during baking?
A: To prevent your cookies from spreading too much during baking, make sure you chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking. This will help them hold their shape better.
Q: Can I use a different type of fat instead of butter?
A: While butter is traditional in this recipe, you can experiment with other fats like coconut oil or avocado oil if you prefer. However, keep in mind that these alternatives may affect the flavor and texture of your cookies.
Q: How long do these cookies stay fresh?
A: These cookies typically stay fresh for up to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature.
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