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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Chill the dough: Refrigerate the baking sheet with the piped cookies for 20 to 30 minutes to help maintain their shape during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the edges start to turn a beautiful golden brown color.
- 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
