Ah, butter cookies! Just the mention of them takes me back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where the sweet scent of baking filled the air and warmed our hearts. I remember sitting by the window, watching her expertly mix ingredients, her hands moving with the rhythm of countless batches before. These cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a connection to cherished memories and shared moments. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite butter cookie recipe with you, a beloved classic that’s both simple and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, these cookies are a delightful way to spread a bit of joy and warmth.
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Cookie Recipe
- The Recipe
- Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- The Benefits of Each Ingredient
- What to Serve With This Cookie Recipe
- Storage & Leftover Tips
Why You’ll Love This Cookie Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with these butter cookies, but here are a few that stand out:
- Simple Ingredients: With just six basic ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and uses items you likely already have in your pantry. There’s no need for fancy ingredients or complicated steps, making it a perfect choice for any day you crave something sweet.
- Versatility: You can shape these cookies in various ways, whether you prefer classic rounds, spritz shapes, or slice-and-bake rounds. Each form offers a unique texture and look. This versatility means you can adapt the recipe for different occasions—perhaps using a cookie press for festive holidays or simply rolling them for a quick treat.
- Make-Ahead Magic: The dough can be prepared in advance and chilled, making it a perfect choice for busy schedules or spontaneous baking urges. You can prepare the dough over the weekend and bake fresh cookies throughout the week without much additional effort.
- Family-Friendly: This is a great recipe to make with kids. They’ll love rolling the dough into balls or using a cookie press to create fun shapes. It’s a wonderful way to introduce young ones to the joy of baking and create lasting memories together.
- Deliciously Buttery: These cookies melt in your mouth, delivering a rich, buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with afternoon tea or coffee. The secret lies in the high butter content, which ensures every bite is full of flavor.
The Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes to 24 hours
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
Calories per Serving: 95
Ingredients
- 8 oz unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
Cream the Butter & Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until light, creamy, and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, ensuring your cookies are wonderfully light. Take your time with this step—the fluffier the mixture, the softer your cookies will be.Add Vanilla & Egg Yolk
Add the salt, vanilla extract, and egg yolk. Mix again until fully combined and smooth. The egg yolk not only adds richness but also helps bind the dough together. Make sure the vanilla is well blended to infuse every bite with its warm aroma.Add the Flour
Gradually add the flour, mixing on low speed just until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix—stop as soon as the dough comes together to prevent the cookies from becoming tough. If you notice the dough sticking to the sides, scrape it down with a spatula to ensure even mixing.Chill the Dough
Shape the dough into a log or flatten it into a disk. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours). This helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and enhances their flavor. Chilling is key for slice-and-bake options, ensuring clean, neat cuts.Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. If you don’t have parchment paper, a silicone baking mat will work just as well.Shape the Cookies
– Option A — Classic Round Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and gently flatten with your palm. For an added touch, press with a fork for a crisscross pattern.
– Option B — Pressed/Spritz Cookies: Use a cookie press to make traditional butter cookie shapes. Experiment with different discs for varied designs.
– Option C — Slice-and-Bake: Slice chilled dough into 1/4-inch rounds. Ensure your knife is sharp for clean edges.Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are pale golden. Do not overbake—these cookies should remain light in color to maintain their delicate texture. Keep a close eye on them, as the difference between perfect and overdone is just a minute.Cool & Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack. They’ll become crisp as they cool, making them perfect for dunking in milk or tea. Enjoy them warm for a softer bite, or let them cool completely for a firmer texture.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
To whip up these delightful butter cookies, you’ll need the following tools:
- Hand mixer or stand mixer: Essential for creaming the butter and sugar efficiently.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space for mixing without spilling.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is key in baking, so precise measurements are important.
- Plastic wrap: For chilling the dough and ensuring it stays fresh.
- Baking sheet: A heavy-duty one ensures even baking.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and aids in even browning.
- Cooling rack: Allows air to circulate around the cookies, preventing them from becoming soggy.
- Cookie press (optional, for spritz cookies): Adds fun and variety to your cookie shapes.
- Sharp knife (for slice-and-bake option): Ensures clean cuts for uniform cookies.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
Understanding the role of each ingredient not only deepens your baking knowledge but also allows you to make informed substitutions if needed:
- Unsalted Butter: The star of the show, providing richness and flavor. Unsalted butter lets you control the salt level in your baking. Always use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps create a delicate, crisp texture. You can substitute some with confectioners’ sugar for a finer texture.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor, balancing the sweetness and bringing out the buttery taste. A pinch goes a long way in elevating the overall flavor profile.
- Pure Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic depth that complements the butter. Opt for pure extract over imitation for the best results.
- Egg Yolk: Contributes to the cookie’s richness and structure, thanks to its natural emulsifying properties. It helps bind all ingredients into a cohesive dough.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the necessary structure and body to the cookies, making them sturdy yet tender. For a slightly different texture, try substituting a portion with almond flour.
What to Serve With This Cookie Recipe
These butter cookies are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of beverages and treats:
- Tea or Coffee: Their subtle sweetness and buttery flavor make them a perfect companion for your afternoon tea or coffee break. Try pairing with Earl Grey or a light roast coffee for a harmonious match.
- Milk: A classic pairing that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Warm milk adds a comforting touch.
- Fruit Compote or Jam: Spread a little on top for a sweet and tangy contrast. Apricot or raspberry jam complements the vanilla notes beautifully.
- Ice Cream: Crumble these cookies over vanilla or butter pecan ice cream for an indulgent dessert. The contrast of textures and temperatures is delightful.
For more cozy baking ideas, you might enjoy our Chocolate Chip Banana Bread or Classic Sugar Cookies.
Storage & Leftover Tips
To keep your butter cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Adding a slice of bread to the container can help maintain moisture and freshness.
- Freezing Dough: You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge before baking. This is perfect for preparing ahead of time for holidays or unexpected guests.
- Freezing Baked Cookies: Once baked, these cookies freeze well. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Thaw at room temperature as needed. They taste just as fresh as the day they were baked when properly stored.
I hope you find as much joy in baking and sharing these butter cookies as I do. They’re a timeless treat that brings comfort and smiles with every bite. Whether you’re enjoying them with family, friends, or as a quiet indulgence just for yourself, these cookies are sure to become a cherished part of your baking repertoire. Happy baking!
Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until light, creamy, and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Add the salt, vanilla extract, and egg yolk. Mix again until fully combined and smooth.
- Add the flour gradually. Mix on low speed just until a soft dough forms—do not overmix.
- Shape the dough into a log or flatten it into a disk. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours). This helps the cookies keep their shape.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Option A — Classic Round Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and gently flatten with your palm.
- Option B — Pressed/Spritz Cookies: Use a cookie press to make shapes (traditional for butter cookies).
- Option C — Slice-and-Bake: Slice chilled dough into 1/4-inch rounds.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are pale golden. Do not overbake—they should stay light-colored.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. They become crisp as they cool.