If you have a soft spot for simple, buttery delights that melt in your mouth and bring a smile with every bite, this Butter Cookies Recipe will quickly climb to the top of your favorites. It captures the essence of classic, homemade cookies with just the right balance of rich butter, sweet vanilla, and a tender, crumbly texture that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for holiday treats, afternoon snacks, or sharing with loved ones, these cookies are as easy to make as they are delicious, inviting you to enjoy the cozy warmth of a homemade classic any time you want.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Butter Cookies Recipe calls for a handful of straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine effortlessly to create a tender, flavorful cookie. Each component plays a vital role: butter provides richness and tenderness, sugar adds the perfect touch of sweetness, and vanilla infuses a warm aromatic note that defines these cookies.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): The star ingredient that brings moistness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the cookies evenly while helping with that delicate crisp edge.
- Large egg (1): Binds ingredients together and adds just the right amount of moisture for a soft dough.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses a luscious, warm flavor that makes these cookies unforgettable.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): The foundation for structure and just enough density without toughness.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a slight lift to keep the cookies tender and airy.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
How to Make Butter Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; this not only prevents sticking but also helps your cookies bake evenly. Having all this set up first keeps you organized and ready for smooth baking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use a mixer or sturdy spoon to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it whips air into the dough, giving your cookies a soft, tender crumb that still holds its shape.
Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated into the creamed butter and sugar. These add moisture and that unmistakable vanilla warmth that lifts the flavor to another level.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the leavening and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour, so your cookies bake consistently every time.
Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients to Form Dough
Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender rather than tough. The dough should be soft yet manageable for shaping.
Step 6: Shape Your Cookies
For classic round cookies, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into balls, and flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass or a fork. If you’d prefer shaped cookies, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to firm it up, then roll it out and use cookie cutters to create your desired shapes. Both methods deliver delicious results, so pick whichever most delights you!
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Place your shaped cookies spaced about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges just start to turn golden. This is the magic moment where they develop a beautiful crisp edge but keep a tender center. Let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Butter Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While the cookies are delightful on their own, sprinkling coarse sugar on top before baking adds a charming sparkle and subtle crunch. Another favorite is dipping cooled cookies in melted chocolate for an indulgent coating that elevates these simple treats into a gourmet delight.
Side Dishes
Butter cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, balancing their buttery richness. For special occasions, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit compote to complement their sweet, tender crumb.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap these charming cookies in decorative tins or cellophane bags tied with a ribbon for beautiful homemade gifts. Arrange them on a platter with an assortment of nuts and dried fruits for an inviting party spread that guests will love. You can also sandwich them with jam or chocolate spread to create delightful cookie sandwiches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once baked and fully cooled, store leftover butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh and delicious for up to one week, maintaining their tender texture and buttery flavor.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these cookies later, you can freeze the dough for up to three months. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before shaping and baking as usual. Baked cookies can also be frozen for up to two months; just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
Butter cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to warm them up, pop them in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 5 minutes. This step revives their softness and makes them taste just baked, perfect for a comforting treat anytime.
FAQs
Can I substitute salted butter for unsalted butter?
You can use salted butter if that’s what you have available, but be sure to reduce or omit the additional salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty cookies. Unsalted butter gives you better control over the final flavor.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that’s designed for baking. Keep in mind texture might vary slightly, so choose a blend that includes xanthan gum or another binder to help maintain structure.
What’s the best way to keep cookies soft?
Store your butter cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread inside. The bread helps retain moisture, keeping the cookies soft for days without developing sogginess.
Can I add flavors or mix-ins to this Butter Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! Adding finely chopped nuts, citrus zest, or even a pinch of cinnamon can add exciting new layers of flavor. Fold your additions gently into the dough just before shaping for the best results.
What causes butter cookies to spread too much?
Cookies may spread if the dough is too warm, the butter too soft, or if there’s too little flour. Chilling the dough before baking helps control spread and keeps the cookies’ shape perfectly defined.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a batch of homemade butter cookies fresh from the oven, especially when you know they came from such a simple, reliable Butter Cookies Recipe. Whether you’re enjoying them with your favorite drink or sharing with friends and family, these cookies never fail to bring warmth and joy. So go ahead, give this recipe a try—and let your kitchen fill with the inviting, buttery aroma that only these classic cookies can deliver.
