Butter Cookie

Butter cookies are a timeless treat that melt in your mouth and are perfect for any occasion. With their buttery flavor and crunchy texture, they are a favorite among cookies lovers of all ages. Whether you’re preparing for a festive celebration or simply craving a sweet snack with your afternoon tea, these delightful cookies are sure to please everyone. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe!

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 25-27 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 120
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 30mg

Why Make This Butter Cookie

These butter cookies are incredibly easy to make and require just a handful of ingredients, making them a perfect choice for beginner bakers. They boast a rich buttery taste that surrounds an irresistible crunch, ensuring satisfaction with every bite. Additionally, they can be customized with various flavors or toppings, making them versatile. From holiday gatherings to cozy afternoons with a cup of coffee, these cookies are a delightful companion.

How to Make Butter Cookie

Follow these straightforward steps to create your own batch of buttery goodness, and watch how quickly they disappear!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, which will help prevent the cookies from sticking.

Step 2: Mixing

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 2 to 3 minutes and is key for achieving the right texture in your cookies.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients

Add the salt and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, mixing until everything is well combined. This will enhance the flavor of your cookies.

Step 4: Forming the Dough

Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the bowl, mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until you no longer see any dry flour.

Step 5: Shaping Cookies

Scoop out small portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on your baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart to allow for spreading.

Step 6: Flattening Cookies

Using the bottom of a glass, gently flatten each dough ball slightly. This gives your cookies a classic shape and also helps them bake evenly.

Step 7: Baking

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as ovens can vary.

Step 8: Cooling

Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack. This step is essential for achieving that perfect, crisp texture!

How to Serve Butter Cookie

These butter cookies make an excellent treat for any gathering. Serve them on a beautiful platter at parties, or alongside your afternoon tea or coffee. They can be dressed up with a light dusting of powdered sugar or drizzled with chocolate for an added touch of indulgence.

How to Store Butter Cookie

To keep your butter cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to prolong their shelf life, they can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to place wax paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.

Expert Tips for Perfect Butter Cookie

• Use room temperature butter for easy creaming; it should be soft but not melted.
• For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of almond extract alongside the vanilla.
• Don’t skip the cooling step! Allowing the cookies to cool on a wire rack prevents them from becoming soggy.

Delicious Variations

• Chocolate Chip Butter Cookies: Simply fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips before shaping the dough.
• Nutty Butter Cookies: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for some added crunch.
• Lemon Zest Butter Cookies: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of lemon zest into the dough for a refreshing citrus twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
   Yes, you can use salted butter; however, reduce the added salt to 1/8 teaspoon to balance the flavors.

2. What can I use instead of flour for gluten-free cookies?
   You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to create a similar texture.

3. How can I make these cookies softer?
   To achieve softer cookies, slightly reduce the baking time and check them when the edges are just golden.

4. Can I add food coloring to the cookie dough?
   Yes! Add a few drops of food coloring when mixing to create festive cookies for special occasions.

5. What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?
   If your dough appears too crumbly, a tablespoon of milk can help bring it together without affecting the flavor.

Conclusion

Making butter cookies is a delightful experience that brings comfort and joy to any kitchen. With their simple ingredients and easy steps, these cookies are perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Their rich buttery flavor will no doubt make them a family favorite. So why not try it today? You’ll be rewarded with warm, freshly baked cookies that fill your home with a delightful aroma!