Nothing says “weekend baking” quite like whipping up a batch of buttery, festive cookies that everyone loves. These classic treats are rich in flavor, easy to make, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you’re celebrating holidays, birthdays, or just need a little sweetness in your life, these cookies will bring joy to your kitchen—and beyond!
Festive Butter Cookie Recipe
Ingredients
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: ½ teaspoon almond extract (for added aroma)
For Decorating
- Powdered sugar glaze (optional): 1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tablespoons milk + 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Colored sprinkles or sanding sugar (for festivity)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until fully combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until a smooth dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand or press with a fork dipped in sugar for texture.
Step 5: Bake
- Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
Step 6: Decorate (Optional)
- While the cookies cool, prepare the powdered sugar glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with festive decorations like colored sugars or sprinkles.
Step 7: Enjoy!
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week—or enjoy them fresh out of the oven!
Why They’re a Family Favorite
- Buttery Flavor : The generous amount of butter ensures every bite is rich and satisfying.
- Festive Touches : Glazes and sprinkles make these cookies special enough for celebrations but simple enough for everyday enjoyment.
- Versatility : Customize the recipe with different extracts (like peppermint or lemon) or toppings to suit any season or occasion.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Cookie)
(Based on 24 cookies)
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 1g
Tips for Success
- Softened Butter : Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for optimal creaming and texture.
- Cookie Spacing : Leave enough space between cookies to prevent spreading and merging during baking.
- Glazing Timing : Allow cookies to cool completely before glazing to avoid melting.
Variations
- Chocolate Chip Twist : Fold semi-sweet chocolate chips into the dough for added indulgence.
- Spiced Version : Add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg for warm, cozy flavors.
- Gluten-Free Option : Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for those with dietary restrictions.
- Holiday Shapes : Roll the dough into logs, chill, then slice into festive shapes for a fun presentation.
These buttery, festive cookies are the epitome of weekend baking bliss—soft, sweet, and packed with flavor. Whip up a batch today and watch as they become your family’s go-to treat!