Butter Cookies

Classic Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
  4. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together and is smooth.
  5. Divide the dough into two portions. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
  6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
  7. Repeat with the second portion of dough.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden brown. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Prep Time: 20 minutes | Chill Time: 30 minutes | Baking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 2 minutes
  10. Kcal: 90 kcal per cookie | Servings: 24 cookies

FAQs:

  1. What are Butter Cookies?
    • Butter cookies are classic, rich, and crumbly cookies made primarily with butter, sugar, flour, and a touch of vanilla. Known for their simple yet delightful flavor, they often have a melt-in-your-mouth texture and can be shaped into various forms such as rounds, squares, or intricate designs using a cookie press.
  2. How do I make Butter Cookies?
    • To make Butter Cookies, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract. Gradually add flour, mixing until the dough comes together. For a smoother dough, you can chill it for about 30 minutes. Shape the dough into desired forms, place on a baking sheet, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until the edges are lightly golden, usually around 10-12 minutes. Let them cool on a wire rack before serving.
  3. Can I add flavors or ingredients to Butter Cookies?
    • Yes, you can customize Butter Cookies by adding various flavors or ingredients. Popular additions include lemon zest, almond extract, cocoa powder, or finely chopped nuts. You can also dip the cookies in melted chocolate or sprinkle them with colored sugar or sprinkles before baking for added texture and decoration.
  4. How should I store Butter Cookies?
    • Store Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their freshness for a longer period, you can freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
  5. What is the difference between Butter Cookies and Shortbread Cookies?
    • Butter Cookies and Shortbread Cookies are similar but have distinct differences. Butter Cookies typically have a higher sugar content and sometimes include an egg, resulting in a slightly crispier texture. Shortbread Cookies have a higher butter-to-flour ratio and less sugar, giving them a denser, crumblier texture. Both are delicious, but Butter Cookies are often sweeter and can be piped or shaped more easily than the more delicate Shortbread Cookies.

Butter Cookies are a timeless favorite, perfect for various occasions from holiday baking to everyday treats, known for their rich, buttery flavor and versatility in shapes and decorations.

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