Butter Cookies Recipe

There’s something timeless and comforting about classic butter cookies. With their rich, buttery flavor and delicate melt-in-your-mouth texture, they’re perfect for any occasion—from holiday treats to tea-time indulgence.

These cookies are incredibly simple to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients, yet they offer a depth of flavor that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re baking them for a celebration or just because, butter cookies are a delightful way to treat yourself and your loved ones. Plus, they store beautifully, making them great for gifting or snacking throughout the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Butter cookies are the kind of treat that everyone—young or old—can agree on. Their simplicity is what makes them so special. With just butter, sugar, flour, and a touch of vanilla, they create a harmony of flavors that’s both nostalgic and indulgent. These cookies are crisp on the edges and tender in the center, making them irresistible with every bite.

They’re incredibly versatile—you can shape them traditionally, pipe them into fancy designs, or even dip them in chocolate for extra flair. What’s more, this recipe is beginner-friendly and foolproof, making it ideal for family baking sessions. The dough is easy to handle, and the results are always rewarding.

Perfect with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk, these cookies offer a satisfying crunch and smooth, buttery finish. Bake a batch and see how fast they disappear!

Make-Ahead Tips

Butter cookies are excellent for making ahead of time. You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, which actually enhances the flavor as the ingredients meld together. Simply wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.

If you want to store them longer, the dough can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before shaping and baking. You can even roll the dough into a log, freeze it, and slice off cookies whenever you want to bake fresh ones.

Once baked, the cookies themselves keep well for up to 2 weeks when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. This makes them great for holiday prep or gifting. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to a month—just let them cool completely before storing.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (90g) powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions (Detailed)

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
   In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 3–4 minutes. This adds air and gives the cookies a delicate texture.
2. Add Vanilla:
   Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
3. Add Flour and Salt:
   Gradually add flour and salt. Mix on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Shape the Dough:
   You can scoop the dough and roll into balls, flatten gently with a fork, or pipe using a star tip for a classic look.
5. Chill the Dough:
   Chill the shaped dough in the fridge for 15–30 minutes to prevent spreading.
6. Bake:
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Cool and Store:
   Let the cookies cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Better Butter Cookies

• Use high-quality butter for richer flavor.
• Don’t skip chilling the dough—it ensures crisp edges and helps cookies hold shape.
• Sift the flour for a lighter texture.
• Want more flavor? Add lemon zest or almond extract.
• Use a piping bag with a star tip for decorative shapes.

Conclusion

Butter cookies are the perfect marriage of simplicity and flavor. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of these golden, crisp, and buttery delights. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a sweet homemade treat, this recipe is sure to win hearts. Don’t be surprised if they vanish faster than you expect!