Introduction
Butter cookies are a classic treat loved by many for their rich, buttery flavor and delicate texture. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to afternoon tea. In this article, we will explore the art of making delicious butter cookies right in your own kitchen. Get ready to indulge in the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of these delectable treats.
Ingredients
Before you start baking your butter cookies, make sure you have the following ingredients ready:
1. 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
2. 1 cup of granulated sugar
3. 2 large eggs
4. 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
5. 3 cups of all-purpose flour
6. 1/2 teaspoon of salt
7. Additional sugar for coating (optional)
These simple ingredients come together to create a delightful batch of butter cookies that will impress your family and friends.
Steps
To make these irresistible butter cookies, follow these steps:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
5. Shape the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. If desired, gently flatten each ball with a fork and sprinkle with sugar.
6. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations
While classic butter cookies are delicious on their own, you can easily customize them with various additions:
1. Chocolate Chips: Fold in a cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
2. Nuts: Chop up your favorite nuts and add them to the dough for extra crunch.
3. Citrus Zest: Mix in some lemon or orange zest for a refreshing citrus flavor.
4. Sprinkles: Roll the dough balls in colorful sprinkles before baking for a fun and festive look.
Feel free to experiment with different flavors and textures to create your own unique versions of butter cookies.
Tips
For perfect butter cookies every time, keep these tips in mind:
1. Use room temperature butter for easy creaming with sugar.
2. Do not overmix the dough once the flour is added to avoid tough cookies.
3. Chill the dough for 30 minutes before shaping to prevent spreading during baking.
4. Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Conclusion
Butter cookies are a timeless treat that never fails to delight. With just a few simple ingredients and some love, you can create batches of these delectable cookies to enjoy with your loved ones. Whether you prefer them plain or jazzed up with your favorite additions, butter cookies are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and start baking a batch of buttery goodness today!
FAQs
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
A: While you can use salted butter, it’s best to stick to unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the cookies.
Q: How long can I store butter cookies?
A: Stored in an airtight container, butter cookies can last up to a week at room temperature or longer in the freezer.
Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
BUTTER COOKIES (Short & Simple)
Classic butter cookies with a rich, buttery flavor and delicate texture, perfect for any occasion. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients
-
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
-
1 cup granulated sugar
-
2 large eggs
-
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
-
3 cups all-purpose flour
-
1/2 teaspoon salt
-
Additional sugar for coating (optional)
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
-
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
-
Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
-
Shape the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. If desired, gently flatten each ball with a fork and sprinkle with sugar.
-
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
