Classic Butter Cookies

Name: Classic Butter Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 92 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 large egg

92 min 24 cookies Easy

All Recipes

Classic Butter Cookies

Delight in the simplicity of buttery, melt-in-your-mouth classic cookies.

Prep

20 min

Cook

12 min

Total

92 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Butter cookies are a timeless treat, cherished for their delicate texture and rich, buttery flavour. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, embodying both simplicity and elegance. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a sweet after-dinner indulgence, their classic taste is sure to please. The origins of butter cookies can be traced back to Scandinavia, where they are a staple at holiday gatherings and celebrations. Over time, they have become a beloved favourite worldwide. This recipe provides a foolproof method to achieve the perfect butter cookie, crispy on the edges and tender in the centre.

Ingredients

Servings

Dry Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

Instructions

Prepare the dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Pro tip: Whisking helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt.

Cream the butter and sugar

In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure the butter is at room temperature for a smoother texture.

Add egg and vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Combine wet and dry ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.

Pro tip: Avoid overmixing to prevent tough cookies.

Chill the dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Pro tip: Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Shape the cookies

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, 2 inches apart.

Pro tip: Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizes.

Bake the cookies

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Pro tip: Cookies will firm up as they cool.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Ensure butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.</li><li>Chill the dough for at least an hour for better cookie shape.</li><li>Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.</li><li>For a festive touch, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

These classic butter cookies are best served with a hot beverage like tea or coffee, making them a perfect afternoon treat. To make them ahead, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to three days or freeze it for up to a month. Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, ensuring they remain fresh and delicious.