Description
These Best Butter Cookies are a classic, buttery delight with a tender crumb and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfectly sweetened and flavored with vanilla, they are easy to make and ideal for any occasion, from holidays to everyday treats.
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: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. This step ensures the cookies will have a tender texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, mixing well until fully combined for a smooth dough base.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and salt, blending gently until the dough forms and comes together. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender cookie texture.
- Shape Cookies: Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip, or use a cookie press to form your desired shapes directly onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn a light golden color indicating they are perfectly baked.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- For softer cookies, do not overbake; edges should be lightly golden.
- Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent cookies from sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Butter should be softened but not melted to achieve the right texture.
- Use a piping bag with a star tip for classic ridged cookie shapes.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh.
