Butter Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Butter cookies are a timeless treat, known for their rich, creamy texture and delicate sweetness. Perfectly crisp on the edges and tender inside, these cookies make an ideal companion to tea or coffee. Let’s bake a batch of these simple yet delicious delights.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Unsalted butter (softened, use high-quality, name brand butter)
• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 1 Large egg
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
• 2 cups All-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon Salt
• 1-2 tablespoons Milk (any kind, use as needed)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set it aside.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar on medium-low speed until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Step 3: Add the egg and vanilla extract, then continue to beat on medium-low speed until everything is smooth and well combined.
4. Step 4: Gradually add the flour and salt to the mixture, mixing just until fully incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
5. Step 5: Add the milk one tablespoon at a time, using only enough to reach a consistency suitable for piping.
6. Step 6: Transfer the dough to a piping bag and pipe small circles onto the prepared baking sheet. If you like, add sprinkles on top. Chill the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes before baking.
7. Step 7: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden brown.
8. Step 8: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or almond extract to the dough.
• Use a star-shaped piping tip for more decorative cookies.
• If you don’t have a piping bag, scoop dough with a spoon and shape gently by hand.
• High-quality butter makes a noticeable difference in richness and texture.

Storage

Store butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months. Reheat briefly in a warm oven to restore softness if desired.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

It’s best to use unsalted butter so you can control the salt level in the recipe. If you only have salted butter, reduce the added salt by half.

Why do I need to chill the dough before baking?

Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape while baking and enhances the texture, making them crispier on the edges but tender inside.

Butter Cookies Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 94 reviews

• Author: Charlotte
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: Approximately 24–30 cookies 1x

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Description

These classic Butter Cookies are rich, tender, and buttery treats perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients and a smooth piping technique, they bake to golden perfection with a delicate crisp edge and a melt-in-your-mouth center. Ideal for gifting or enjoying with tea or coffee.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened (preferably high-quality, name brand butter)
• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 1 Large egg
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
• 2 cups All-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon Salt
• 1–2 tablespoons Milk (any kind, adjust as needed)

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Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Set aside while you prepare the dough.
2. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl or using a stand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium-low speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add egg and vanilla: Incorporate the large egg and vanilla extract into the creamed butter mixture, continuing to beat on medium-low speed until the batter is smooth and uniform.
4. Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture, mixing just until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain the cookies’ delicate texture.
5. Adjust consistency with milk: Add milk one tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition until you reach a piping consistency that is firm enough to hold shape but smooth to pipe.
6. Pipe the cookies: Transfer the dough into a piping bag fitted with a round or decorative tip. Pipe small circles evenly spaced onto the prepared baking sheet. Optionally, add sprinkles on top for decoration.
7. Chill the dough: Refrigerate the baking sheet with the piped cookies for 20 to 30 minutes to help maintain their shape during baking.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the edges start to turn a beautiful golden brown color.
9. Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet before serving or storing.

Notes

• Use high-quality unsalted butter to maximize flavor.
• Do not overmix the dough after adding flour to prevent tough cookies.
• Chilling the dough before baking helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents spreading.
• Milk is added to achieve the right piping consistency – add gradually and use the minimum needed.
• Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: butter cookies, classic cookies, piped cookies, simple cookie recipe, homemade cookies