Butter Cookies Recipe
There’s something almost magical about the melt-in-your-mouth indulgence of Butter Cookies. These golden treats are a heartfelt favorite that instantly transport you to cozy afternoons with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Crisp at the edges, tender in the center, and infused with a buttery richness, their irresistible flavor is balanced perfectly with a hint of vanilla (and a whisper of almond, if you wish). Whether you’re baking for the holidays or simply want to treat yourself, these cookies promise pure, nostalgic joy in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Butter Cookies are stunningly simple but rely on a handful of high-quality ingredients to create their iconic flavor and texture. Each component plays a starring role—from the rich, creamy butter to the aromatic extracts—so don’t skip or skimp on any!
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): The foundation of the cookies, lending richness and that signature melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- Granulated sugar (2/3 cup): Balances the butter’s richness and creates a delicately sweet crumb.
- Large egg (1): Binds everything together and adds tenderness to the dough.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses the cookies with warm, classic flavor.
- Almond extract (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a subtle, nutty intrigue that complements the vanilla beautifully.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): Gives structure and that perfect, delicate crunch.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Coarse sugar or sprinkles (optional): Adds sparkle, crunch, and a touch of whimsy on top.
How to Make Butter Cookies
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple trick not only prevents sticking but also ensures your Butter Cookies bake up with perfectly golden bottoms and no burnt bits.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter together with the sugar for about 2–3 minutes, until it turns pale and fluffy. This step is crucial—creaming incorporates air, giving your cookies their dreamy light texture. Don’t rush it!
Step 3: Add the Egg and Extracts
Crack in the egg, then pour in the vanilla and, if you like a subtle hint of sophistication, the almond extract. Beat everything together until smooth and well combined. The extracts create enticing aromas that bloom as the dough mixes.
Step 4: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Add the flour and salt to the wet mixture and stir until a soft, cohesive dough forms. If your kitchen is warm and the dough feels too soft to shape, pop it in the fridge for 15–20 minutes—it’ll firm right up, making it easier to handle.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Scoop the dough onto your prepared baking sheet, using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop for neat rounds. Want a classic touch? Pipe the dough with a star tip for that iconic Danish Butter Cookie look. Space the cookies about 2 inches apart so they bake evenly.
Step 6: Decorate and Bake
Sprinkle the tops with coarse sugar or colored sprinkles for a festive twist. Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, just until the edges take on a whisper of golden color. Watch closely—Butter Cookies can go from perfect to overdone in a flash!
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies rest on the pan for five minutes to set, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This ensures a crisp outside and tender heart, making each bite absolutely delightful.
How to Serve Butter Cookies
Garnishes
A sprinkle of coarse sugar on top before baking adds an irresistible sparkle and light crunch. If you’re feeling creative, drizzle cooled cookies with a bit of melted chocolate, or dip half the cookie in chocolate and let them set for an elegant touch.
Side Dishes
Butter Cookies pair beautifully with a hot beverage—think fresh coffee, fragrant tea, or even a glass of cold milk. For dessert platters, serve them with chocolate-dipped strawberries or a bowl of your favorite fruits to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack Butter Cookies in a pretty tin lined with parchment for a giftable treat, or layer them in glass jars with festive ribbons. For special occasions, arrange them on tiered stands alongside other small sweets and maybe a sprig of mint or edible flowers for a show-stopping centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store completely cooled Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to a week, making them perfect for snacking or sharing throughout the week.
Freezing
Both the dough and baked cookies freeze beautifully. Shape and freeze unbaked dough rounds for up to three months, then bake straight from the freezer (just add a minute or two to the baking time). Baked cookies should be layered between parchment and sealed tightly.
Reheating
While Butter Cookies are tasty straight from the jar, a quick pop in a 250°F (120°C) oven for 3–5 minutes will refresh their crispness if they’ve softened. Let them cool briefly before serving for that just-baked allure.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can swap in salted butter. Just omit the added 1/4 teaspoon of salt in the recipe, and taste to ensure the dough isn’t overly salty. Unsalted butter gives you more control over the final flavor.
Why did my Butter Cookies spread too much?
Butter Cookies can spread if the dough is too warm or if too much butter was used. If your dough feels soft and sticky, chilling it for 15–20 minutes before baking will help the cookies keep their shape.
How do I achieve the classic piped cookie look?
For those iconic swirls, transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. If the dough is too stiff, knead it slightly or let it warm up for a few minutes at room temperature for easier piping.
Is almond extract necessary?
Almond extract is completely optional, but it does add a lovely, slightly floral depth. If you’re allergic or simply prefer the straightforward vanilla flavor, you can skip it without sacrificing deliciousness.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Butter Cookies are wonderful for gifting or parties, so feel free to double (or even triple) the recipe. Just be sure to stagger your baking sheets so the oven doesn’t get overcrowded.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’ll treat yourself and your loved ones to a batch of homemade Butter Cookies soon. With their irresistible aroma and timeless appeal, they’re the kind of classic cookie that never fails to brighten any day with a little sweetness and a lot of joy!
Print
Butter Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These butter cookies are a classic treat that is perfect for any occasion. With a rich buttery flavor and a hint of almond, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone. They are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Topping:
- Optional coarse sugar or sprinkles for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add wet ingredients: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using.
- Mix dry ingredients: Add the flour and salt and mix until a soft dough forms. Chill if needed.
- Form cookies: Scoop or pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, add toppings if desired.
- Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden. Cool on a wire rack.
Notes
- For a classic Danish-style butter cookie, pipe the dough using a star tip.
- You can dip half in melted chocolate for a festive finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
