Description
These Best Butter Cookies are classic, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth treats perfect for any occasion. Featuring a simple ingredient list and easy preparation, they yield crisp edges with a tender center and a rich vanilla flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cookie texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated, adding moisture and rich flavor to the dough.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and salt, blending carefully until the dough forms. Be cautious not to overmix to avoid tough cookies.
- Shape the Cookies: Transfer the dough into a piping bag fitted with a star tip or use a cookie press. Pipe or press your desired shapes evenly onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges turn lightly golden, signaling they are perfectly crisp on the outside while tender inside.
- Cool the Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set, then move them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- Do not overmix the dough after adding flour to keep cookies tender.
- Use unsalted butter to control salt content; adjust if using salted butter.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week.
- For a decorative touch, consider sprinkling with colored sugar before baking.
- Make sure butter is softened, not melted, for proper creaming consistency.
