Why Make This Recipe
Butter cookies are delightful treats that bring joy during the festive season. Their rich, buttery flavor and crumbly texture make them a favorite among holiday sweets. These cookies are not only easy to make but also perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you are baking for a holiday party or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, these butter cookies are sure to add warmth and sweetness to your celebrations.
How to Make Butter Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 egg (optional, for richness)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg (if using) and vanilla extract.
- Combine the flour, salt, and baking powder; gradually add to the creamed mixture, mixing well.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on ungreased baking sheets.
- Flatten each ball with a fork or your hands.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Allow to cool before serving.
How to Serve Butter Cookies
These butter cookies can be served fresh from the oven or you can pack them into gift boxes for friends and family. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a great addition to any holiday gathering. You can also decorate them with icing or sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for an extra special touch.
How to Store Butter Cookies
To keep your butter cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain good for about a week. If you want to preserve them for longer, you can freeze the cookies. Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they will last for up to three months.
Tips to Make Butter Cookies
- Use room temperature butter for easier mixing.
- If you want to add a bit of flavor, consider incorporating some lemon zest or almond extract.
- For a crunchy texture, you can sprinkle some sugar on top before baking.
Variation
You can easily customize these butter cookies by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for added flavor and texture. You can create a fun twist by rolling the dough in colored sugar to celebrate various holidays.
FAQs
1. Can I make butter cookies without eggs?
Yes, you can leave out the egg. The cookies will still turn out tasty, although they might be a bit less rich.
2. How can I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure to chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This can help the cookies maintain their shape.
3. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but you might want to reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened Use room temperature butter for easier mixing.
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt Reduce if using salted butter.
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 large egg (optional, for richness) Omit for egg-free cookies.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg (if using) and vanilla extract.
- Combine the flour, salt, and baking powder; gradually add to the creamed mixture, mixing well.
Baking
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on ungreased baking sheets.
- Flatten each ball with a fork or your hands.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Allow to cool before serving.
