Butter Cookies Recipe

There’s just something magical about classic Butter Cookies: golden, buttery, and irresistibly crisp around the edges, with a delicate melt-in-your-mouth center. These cookies are as much a joy to make as they are to eat, filling your kitchen with the fragrant promise of real butter and vanilla. Whether you’re baking for a holiday cookie platter, a cozy afternoon snack, or a sweet homemade gift, Butter Cookies deliver pure comfort in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Butter Cookies are the perfect showcase for simple, quality ingredients. Each one plays an important role in building flavor and texture, so don’t skimp—let’s give each its moment in the spotlight!

• Unsalted butter: Use high-quality, name brand butter for the richest flavor and creamiest texture; it’s the foundation of your Butter Cookies.
• Granulated sugar: This gives sweetness and just the right amount of crispness to the edges.
• Large egg: The egg binds everything together and helps the cookies hold their beautiful shape.
• Vanilla: For warmth and fragrant depth—go for pure vanilla extract if you can.
• All purpose flour: Essential for structure; sift your flour for extra tender cookies.
• Salt: Just a touch sharpens the flavors and keeps the cookies from tasting flat.
• Milk (any kind): Adds just enough moisture to get the dough to perfect piping consistency; start with less and add more only if needed.

How to Make Butter Cookies

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. While the oven is warming up, line your baking sheet with parchment paper—trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when the cookies lift off effortlessly. A little prep work means all the focus stays on perfect cookies!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Place your softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar into a large bowl or the bowl of your stand mixer. Mix them on medium-low speed until they turn light and fluffy—this can take about 3 to 5 minutes, and it’s worth every second. The air you whip in here results in lighter, more delicate Butter Cookies.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Crack in your large egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Continue beating on medium-low until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step adds richness, a little lift, and that irresistible hint of vanilla throughout the cookies.

Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients

With the mixer on low, slowly sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and salt. Blend just until you see no streaks of flour left; don’t overmix, or you’ll lose that tender crumb. The dough will be thick, but that’s exactly what you want!

Step 5: Adjust Consistency and Pipe

Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, just until your dough is pipeable. Spoon the dough into a piping bag fitted with your favorite tip, and pipe small circles onto your prepared baking sheets. If you love sprinkles, now’s the time to shower them on! Chill the trays in the refrigerator for at least 20–30 minutes—this helps Butter Cookies keep their shape while baking.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Pop your chilled trays into the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cookie edges are just hinting at golden. Watch them closely! Overbaking takes away that delicate, buttery texture. Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring—this sets their shape and gives you perfect Butter Cookies every time.

How to Serve Butter Cookies

Garnishes

A quick dusting of powdered sugar or a scattering of colorful sprinkles right before baking is a classic move that never goes out of style. For a more grown-up touch, try a drizzle of melted chocolate once the cookies are cool—simple, but sophisticated.

Side Dishes

Butter Cookies pair beautifully with a cup of rich hot chocolate, coffee, or even a delicate black tea. For a more festive platter, surround them with sliced fruit, other cookies, or small bowls of jam for dipping.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform a batch of Butter Cookies into edible gifts by stacking them in cellophane bags tied with ribbon, or arrange them on a vintage tin for a touch of nostalgia. For gatherings, display them on a tiered platter alongside other treats—their elegant piped shapes will always stand out.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Butter Cookies keep wonderfully well. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature—they’ll stay fresh and crisp for up to a week. If you live in a humid climate, add a sheet of parchment between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing

These cookies are perfect for advance prep! After baking and cooling, layer Butter Cookies in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between each layer. They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just bring them to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.

Reheating

If you want to refresh your Butter Cookies, place them in a 300-degree oven for about 2–3 minutes. Let them cool before eating—this revives their gentle crispness without over-baking.

FAQs

Why should I use unsalted butter in Butter Cookies?

Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness of your cookies and ensures the delicate buttery flavor shines through. Using high-quality butter really makes all the difference in both taste and texture.

Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?

Absolutely! A hand mixer works just as well for creaming the butter and sugar. Just make sure to mix until the batter is light and fluffy—patience pays off here!

How can I make Butter Cookies more decorative?

Use different piping tips for varied patterns or shapes, and add festive sprinkles, candied fruit pieces, or a simple chocolate drizzle once cooled. Half the fun is making them look as special as they taste!

Why chill the dough before baking?

Chilling helps Butter Cookies hold their piped shape and prevents excessive spreading. This step is key if you want those picture-perfect edges and delicate, buttery centers.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can pipe the dough onto baking sheets, cover, and refrigerate overnight before baking. This makes Butter Cookies even more convenient for busy schedules or big baking days.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a recipe that brings joy to both baker and lucky taste-testers, Butter Cookies are the perfect pick. With their irresistible aroma and classic crumb, these cookies are bound to become a staple in your kitchen—give them a try and discover just how special a simple treat can be!

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