Butter Cookies

Butter cookies are a delightful treat that brings a sense of comfort and nostalgia with every bite. These simple yet scrumptious cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a lovely gift, or simply indulging in a sweet snack. Their rich, buttery flavor and crumbly texture can easily elevate your afternoon tea or coffee break, making them a timeless favorite.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: 27-30 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 130
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 50mg

Why Make This Butter Cookies

These butter cookies are a must-try because they pack immense flavor with very few ingredients. The use of unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content while ensuring that buttery goodness shines. They’re incredibly versatile, lending themselves beautifully to variations such as adding chocolate chips, nuts, or spices. Not only are they easy to make, but they also fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that will have everyone anticipating a tasty treat. Plus, they require minimal cleanup, making them great for quick baking sessions!

How to Make Butter Cookies

Making butter cookies is straightforward and can be done in a few simple steps. They come together quickly and bake up beautifully golden, making them irresistible to both young and old.

Ingredients:

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

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve the perfect texture.

Step 2: Mixing

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth. You want to achieve a light and fluffy consistency that brings air into the mixture.

Step 3: Cooking

Stir in the vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the flour and salt until the dough comes together. The dough should be sticky but hold its shape well. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on ungreased baking sheets. Flatten each ball slightly with a fork to create that classic cookie shape. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 4: Finishing

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This cooling step helps the cookies firm up, making them easier to handle.

How to Serve Butter Cookies

Butter cookies can be enjoyed on their own, with a cup of tea or coffee, or even paired with a dollop of frosting for an extra indulgence. They make excellent gifts when packaged in a decorative box or tin, and are perfect for parties, holidays, or simply as a weekend treat.

How to Store Butter Cookies

To keep your butter cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about a week this way. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Wrap individual cookies in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months frozen!

Expert Tips for Perfect Butter Cookies

• Ensure your butter is at room temperature before starting; this makes it easier to cream with sugar.
• Don’t overmix the dough once you add the flour; this can lead to a tougher texture.
• Feel free to sprinkle a bit of sugar on top before baking for an added touch of sweetness and texture.
• If using salted butter, adjust or omit the salt in the recipe, as you want to maintain the right balance of flavors.

Delicious Variations

• Chocolate Chip Butter Cookies: Fold in chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
• Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing hint of citrus.
• Nuts: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
• Spiced Butter Cookies: Mix in a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for warm, cozy flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use salted butter in this recipe?
  Yes, you can! Just omit the salt in the recipe to maintain a balanced flavor.

• What do I do if my dough is too sticky?
  If the dough feels too sticky to work with, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle.

• Can I freeze the cookie dough?
  Absolutely! You can roll the dough into balls, freeze them, and bake them from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

• What should I do if my cookies are too hard after baking?
  Overbaking could create hard cookies. Keep an eye on them as they bake, removing them from the oven once the edges are slightly golden.

• How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
  Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking.

Conclusion

Butter cookies are a classic favorite that everyone seems to love. Their rich flavor and crumbly texture make them incredibly satisfying and easy to whip up anytime you need a treat. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create delightful cookies that are sure to impress family and friends. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps above, and enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade butter cookies! Happy baking!