Description
These Best Butter Cookies are melt-in-your-mouth delicious with a rich, buttery flavor and a tender crumb. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or a simple treat with your afternoon coffee, these classic cookies are easy to make and utterly irresistible.
Ingredients
Units
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- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Decorations:
- Sanding sugar or sprinkles
- Melted chocolate for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip for classic shapes, or roll the dough into 1-inch balls for a simpler design. Flatten the balls slightly with a fork or the bottom of a glass.
- Decorate (Optional):
- If desired, sprinkle the cookies with sanding sugar or add decorations before baking.
- Bake:
- Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional Finishing Touches:
- Drizzle or dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate and allow to set for an extra-special touch.
Notes
- For a citrus twist, add 1 teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough.
- These cookies store well in an airtight container for up to 1 week or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Make the dough ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Let it soften slightly before shaping and baking.