Butter cookies are a timeless favorite that are perfect for any occasion. These crisp, buttery treats are easy to make and require minimal ingredients, making them a go-to recipe for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
Whether you enjoy them plain, or you like to add decorations or fillings, butter cookies never fail to impress.
In this article, we’ll guide you through a simple butter cookie recipe and provide tips to elevate these delicious cookies.
Ingredients for Butter Cookies
To make butter cookies, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg (optional, for egg wash)
Optional Add-ins or Variations:
- Chocolate Chips: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
- Lemon Zest: For a fresh citrus flavor, add the zest of one lemon to the dough.
- Sprinkles: Add colored sprinkles or sugar crystals to the tops of your cookies before baking for a festive look.
- Almond Extract: Swap the vanilla extract for almond extract for a different flavor profile.
Preparing the Butter Cookie Dough
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. The key is to incorporate air into the butter mixture so that your cookies are light and crispy.
Step 2: Add the Vanilla Extract
Once the butter and sugar mixture is smooth, add the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated. This will add a lovely, fragrant flavor to the dough.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Sifting the flour beforehand helps to ensure there are no lumps and makes it easier to mix with the butter mixture.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring slowly with a spatula or mixer. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough cookies. Continue mixing until the dough just comes together.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough will make it easier to roll out and cut into shapes.
This step is especially important if you’re using cookie cutters to shape your cookies.
Shaping the Butter Cookies
Step 1: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has chilled, lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. If you want thinner cookies, roll it out even thinner. If you’re using cookie cutters, make sure to flour the cutters to avoid sticking.
Step 2: Cut Out Shapes
Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the dough. You can make traditional round cookies or get creative with festive shapes like stars, hearts, or flowers.
Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheets
Place the shaped cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Leave about 1-2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading while baking.
Step 4: Egg Wash (Optional)
If you want a shiny, golden finish to your butter cookies, you can brush the tops of the cookies with an egg wash (a beaten egg with a tablespoon of water).
This step is optional, but it will give your cookies a professional-looking finish.
Baking the Butter Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for about 8-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly due to the high butter content.
Tip: Don’t Overbake
Because butter cookies are thin, they bake quickly. Remove them from the oven when they’re just starting to turn golden around the edges, as they will continue to cook slightly on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
Once the cookies are baked, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Decorating the Butter Cookies
Butter cookies are great on their own, but they can also be decorated to add some flair. Here are some ideas for decorating your cookies:
- Icing: Use royal icing or glaze icing to decorate the cookies. You can pipe intricate designs or simply drizzle the icing over the cookies.
- Sprinkles: After applying the icing, you can add colorful sprinkles or sugar crystals to make the cookies more festive.
- Sugar Coating: Roll the cookie edges in colored sugar before baking for a sparkling effect.
Final Tips for Perfect Butter Cookies
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: Overworking the dough can result in tough cookies. Mix the dough just until combined and handle it as little as possible.
- Chill the Dough: This step is crucial for easy handling, especially if you’re cutting out shapes with cookie cutters. It also helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
- Storage: Butter cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months if you want to save them for a later date.
Conclusion
Butter cookies are a classic treat that everyone loves. They are simple to make, customizable with different flavors and add-ins, and perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re baking them for a holiday, a special event, or just to enjoy with a cup of tea, these buttery, crisp cookies are sure to be a hit.
So grab your ingredients, start baking, and enjoy the sweet, satisfying taste of homemade butter cookies!