These Butter Cookies are the epitome of classic, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. With their rich buttery flavor, delicate crumb, and simple ingredients, they’re a timeless treat that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a holiday cookieplatter, an afternoon tea snack, or a sweet gift for loved ones. Best of all, they’re easy to make and can be customized with sprinkles, chocolate drizzles, or decorative shapes. Let’s bake up a batch of these buttery delights!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like butter, sugar, flour, and eggs.
- Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: The high butter content ensures a soft, tender bite.
- Versatile: Perfect for decorating or enjoying plain.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze for later.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Butter Cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional: Sprinkles, colored sugar, or melted chocolate for decoration
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
2. Add Wet Ingredients
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
3. Mix in Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed (or by hand) until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Shape the Cookies
- Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip for classic swirls, or use a cookie press for decorative shapes. Alternatively, roll the dough into small balls and flatten slightly with a fork for a rustic look.
- Pipe or shape the cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1–2 inches apart.
5. Bake Until Golden
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies soft and tender.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Decorate and Serve
- Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a simple finish, or drizzle with melted chocolate and add sprinkles for extra flair.
- Serve with tea, coffee, or milk for a delightful treat.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for an elegant afternoon snack.
- Package them in tins or cellophane bags for homemade gifts.
- Serve alongside ice cream or fruit for a dessert pairing.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Softened Butter: Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for the best texture.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): If the dough feels too soft, chill it for 15–20 minutes before shaping to make it easier to work with.
- Experiment with Shapes: Use cookie cutters, a cookie press, or piping tips to create fun designs.
- Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or freeze for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
These Butter Cookies are a classic favorite that never goes out of style. With their rich, buttery flavor and delicate texture, they’re a treat that everyone will adore. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion, gifting them to friends, or simply enjoying them with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to bring joy.
So grab your butter, whip up this simple dough, and bake your way to buttery bliss. One bite of these soft, sweet cookies, and you’ll understand why they’re a timeless classic!
