When it comes to timeless treats that never fail to impress, butter cookies top the list. This Easy and Authentic Butter Cookie Recipe combines simplicity and flavour in the best way possible. Whether you’re baking for a festive occasion or indulging in a casual treat, these cookies offer the perfect balance of buttery richness and melt-in-your-mouth texture. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, this Easy and Authentic Butter Cookie Recipe ensures success every time.
From novice bakers to seasoned pros, anyone can enjoy the rewarding experience of whipping up this Easy and Authentic Butter Cookie Recipe. Give this recipe a try and you’ll see why it’s loved by cookie enthusiasts everywhere. An Easy and Authentic Butter Cookie Recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients in Butter Cookie Recipe
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional for Decoration:
- Melted chocolate (for drizzling)
- Colored sugar or sprinkles
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the butter, creating the perfect cookie texture.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until fully combined.
- Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing on low speed until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing, as this can affect the cookies’ tenderness.
2. Shape the Cookies:
- Transfer the dough onto a clean surface. Divide it into two portions for easier handling.
- Roll each portion into a log shape about 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.
- Once chilled, slice the logs into 1/4-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife. For a festive twist, use cookie cutters to shape the dough instead.
3. Bake the Cookies:
- Arrange the cookie slices on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Be cautious not to overbake, as butter cookies are best when they’re soft and delicate.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Optional Decoration:
- Once the cookies are fully cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over them for added elegance. You can also sprinkle some coloured sugar or festive sprinkles for a pop of colour.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Arrange your Classic Butter Cookies on a serving plate or store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Pair with tea, coffee or enjoy as is.
Flavor-Enhancing Tips
Use High-Quality Butter
The key to a truly delicious butter cookie is using high-quality unsalted butter. The rich flavor of butter is the star of this recipe, so choose wisely.
Experiment with Extracts
While vanilla is classic, you can experiment with almond extract or lemon zest for a unique flavor profile.
Chill for Perfect Shapes
Chilling the dough ensures that the cookies don’t spread too much during baking, giving you neat and professional-looking results.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to a month. Simply slice and bake when ready.
Q: How do I store butter cookies?
A: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely, Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a similar texture. Ensure the blend includes xanthan gum for best results.
Q: Why are my cookies spreading too much?
A: This could be due to using overly soft butter or skipping the dough chilling step. Ensure your butter is just softened and not melted, and always chill the dough.
Q: Can I add nuts or dried fruits to the dough?
A: Definitely, Finely chopped nuts or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can be folded into the dough for added texture and flavour.