Why Make This Recipe
Butter cookies are a classic treat, especially during the festive season. Their delightful flavor and simple ingredients make them a favorite among both kids and adults. These cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family, decorating for special occasions, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa. Making butter cookies at Christmas can also become a cherished family tradition, bringing everyone together in the kitchen to create something special.
How to Make Butter Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: sprinkles or for decoration
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt to the mixture and stir until the dough forms.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your hand.
- If desired, add sprinkles on top for decoration.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
How to Serve Butter Cookies
Butter cookies can be served in many ways. You can present them on a festive plate as part of a cookie platter during holiday gatherings. They pair wonderfully with milk, tea, or coffee. You can also package them in decorative boxes as gifts for friends and neighbors.
How to Store Butter Cookies
To keep your butter cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will typically stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies in a zip-top freezer bag. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Tips to Make Butter Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Do not overmix the dough; mix just until the ingredients are combined for the best texture.
- Experiment with different toppings like chocolate chips, nuts, or colored sugar to make them festive.
Variation
You can easily change up this recipe by adding lemon zest for a citrusy flavor or substituting almond extract for vanilla. Both variations add a unique twist to the classic butter cookie.
FAQs
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but it may alter the taste slightly. If you do, skip adding the salt in the recipe.
2. How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them as they can bake quickly.
3. Can I decorate the cookies before baking?
Yes! You can sprinkle decorations on top before baking to add a festive touch. Just be mindful that some decorations may change in appearance while baking.
Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Cookie Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt Skip if using salted butter.
- as needed sprinkles Optional for decoration.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt to the mixture and stir until the dough forms.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your hand.
- If desired, add sprinkles on top for decoration.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
