These rich, buttery cookies are melt-in-your-mouth delicious, featuring a perfectly crisp edge and a soft, tender center. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea, used as a base for sandwich cookies, or gifted in elegant tins, these cookies are guaranteed to be a favorite. The secret lies in using high-quality butter, which gives them their signature flavor and texture. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create bakery-style butter cookies right at home!
Ingredients:
For the Butter Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for extra tenderness)
For Optional Toppings:
- ½ cup melted chocolate (for dipping)
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts)
- ¼ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar together using a hand or stand mixer.
- Continue beating for 3–5 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color.
Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla
- Crack the egg into the bowl and mix until fully incorporated.
- Stir in vanilla extract for an enhanced, aromatic flavor.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and cornstarch.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, stirring gently until a smooth dough forms.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll the dough into small 1-inch balls or pipe it into shapes using a star-tipped pastry bag.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
- Dip in melted chocolate and sprinkle with chopped nuts for an elegant finish.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a classic touch.
Tips for Perfect Butter Cookies:
- Use high-quality butter for maximum flavor.
- Don’t overmix the dough to maintain a tender texture.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes if it feels too soft to shape.
- Store properly in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week.
These cookies are simple, indulgent, and effortlessly elegant! Want ideas for unique flavors or festive variations? Let’s get creative.