Butter cookies are a timeless dessert known for their rich flavor, soft texture, and melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Made with simple pantry ingredients, these cookies are perfect for holidays, afternoon tea, or whenever you want a comforting homemade sweet. Their delicate sweetness and buttery aroma make them a favorite for both adults and children.
This easy butter cookie recipe is beginner-friendly and requires minimal effort while delivering bakery-style results.
🧾 Ingredients You Will Need
To make classic butter cookies, you will need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
These basic ingredients work together to create cookies that are rich, tender, and flavorful.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light, pale, and fluffy. This step is important for achieving a soft texture.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until fully combined and smooth.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour and salt. Mix gently until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix, as this can make the cookies dense.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Scoop small portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
You can:
- Roll them into balls and flatten slightly
- Use a piping bag for decorative shapes
- Press lightly with a fork for a classic look
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
The tops should remain pale for a soft texture.
Step 7: Cool
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
🌟 Tips for Perfect Butter Cookies
- Use room-temperature butter for easy mixing
- Avoid overbaking to keep cookies soft
- Measure flour correctly to prevent dryness
- For extra flavor, a small amount of butter extract can be added
🍪 Why Butter Cookies Are So Popular
Butter cookies are loved for several reasons:
- They use simple ingredients
- They bake quickly
- They have a rich, buttery flavor
- They can be shaped in many ways
- They store well and make great gifts
Unlike crunchy cookies, butter cookies are soft inside with lightly golden edges, giving them a luxurious texture.
🫙 Storage Instructions
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days
- Cookies can also be frozen for longer storage
☕ Serving Suggestions
Butter cookies are delicious:
- With coffee or tea
- As part of a dessert platter
- Decorated with chocolate drizzle or powdered sugar
- Served during holidays or special occasions
⭐ Final Thoughts
Butter cookies are a simple yet elegant dessert that never goes out of style. With their rich flavor, tender crumb, and easy preparation, they are perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers. Whether enjoyed plain or decorated, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home.