Classic Butter Cookies (Crisp Edges, Melt-in-Your-Mouth)

Butter cookies are a delightful treat that adds a sprinkle of joy to any gathering. With their crisp edges and buttery richness, these cookies evoke warm memories of baking in the kitchen with loved ones. Perfect for tea time or as a sweet snack, butter cookies are a timeless classic that never goes out of style. They’re easy to make, yet incredibly satisfying to enjoy; each bite melts in your mouth, leaving you craving just one more.

What exactly are butter cookies? They stem from an age-old tradition of using simple ingredients to create something irresistible. Originating in Europe, particularly in the Scandinavian countries, these cookies were often given as gifts during festive occasions. The surprising part is how such a simple combination of butter, sugar, and flour can create something so beautiful and delicious. Each cookie offers a tender bite, paired with the satisfying crunch of sugar, making butter cookies a universally loved treat.

You’ll love making butter cookies not just for their taste, but also for how quick and affordable they are. This recipe can come together in about an hour, including chilling time, and all you need are basic ingredients from your pantry. Plus, the process of rolling the dough and cutting it into slices is a fun activity for the whole family. Whether you’re gearing up for a bake sale or just treating yourself, these cookies are bound to impress without breaking the bank.

Quick overview

Making butter cookies is a straightforward process that requires minimal tools and about 10-12 minutes of baking time. You’ll need a stand mixer and a baking sheet to get started.

Ingredients

. 2 cups flour
. 1/2 tsp salt
. 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
. 1/2 cup sugar
. 2 egg yolks
. 2 tsp vanilla extract
. 1/3 cup sanding sugar

Instructions

1. In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter, salt, and sugar until your mixture is light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg yolks while continually mixing, ensuring well combined. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate any ingredients stuck there!
3. Pour in the 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and mix thoroughly.
4. Gradually add the flour, mixing until just incorporated. You’ll want a nice, cohesive dough at this point.
5. Roll the dough into a log shape, then wrap it tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap, and chill it in the refrigerator for at least one hour so it firms up nicely.
6. Once your dough is chilled, sprinkle sanding sugar on a clean surface. Unwrap your dough log and roll it in the sugar for a delightful sparkle.
7. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into slices of even thickness, creating your cookies.
8. Place the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake them in your preheated oven at 350F for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden brown.

What to serve with Butter Cookies

Butter cookies shine on their own, but they pair perfectly with a warm cup of tea or coffee. You might also enjoy them alongside a fresh fruit salad or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. If you have leftover cookies, they make a lovely addition to a sweet afternoon snack with friends.

Top tips for perfecting Butter Cookies

1. Use room temperature butter: It creams more easily with sugar, leading to a lighter cookie.
2. Chill the dough: This helps firm it up so your cookies maintain their shape while baking.
3. Don’t overmix: Just mix until the ingredients are combined to avoid tough cookies.
4. Keep it even: When slicing, try to cut evenly to ensure consistent baking.
5. Invest in quality ingredients: Better butter and pure vanilla extract make a noticeable difference in flavor.
6. Experiment with flavors: Add lemon or almond extract for a twist on the classic butter cookie.
7. Watch the baking time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies for perfect edges.

Storing and reheating tips

Store your butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they should stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them later, you can also freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months! When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes to bring back that freshly baked goodness.

Butter Cookies

Delightful butter cookies with crisp edges and rich flavor, perfect for tea time or as a sweet snack.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 12 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: European, Scandinavian

Calories: 90

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups flour
• 1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened) Use room temperature butter.
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 2 tsp vanilla extract Use pure vanilla extract for better flavor.

Toppings

• 1/3 cup sanding sugar For sprinkling.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter, salt, and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg yolks while continually mixing, ensuring well combined.
3. Pour in the 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and mix thoroughly.
4. Gradually add the flour, mixing until just incorporated to form a cohesive dough.
5. Roll the dough into a log shape, wrap it tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap, and chill it in the refrigerator for at least one hour.

Baking

1. Once the dough is chilled, sprinkle sanding sugar on a clean surface.
2. Unwrap your dough log and roll it in the sugar.
3. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into slices of even thickness to create your cookies.
4. Place the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are just turning golden brown.

Notes

Best served with tea or coffee. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.

FAQs

This butter cookie recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add a classic treat to their baking repertoire. They are perfect for sharing special moments with friends and family, and each bite brings a little warmth to your day. So why not whip up a batch soon? You’ll be glad you did, and those delicious butter cookies will become a cherished favorite in your home!

More Resources

For more delightful baking ideas, check out these related recipes:

• Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe Ever
• Triple Chocolate Chip Crinkle Cookies
• Hot Chocolate Cookies
• Cookies and Cream Bark
• Brown Sugar Pecan Pie Brownies
• Butter Cookies – Wikipedia
• Baking Basics: How to Cream Butter and Sugar – King Arthur Baking
• Healthier Baking Tips – Cleveland Clinic
• Holiday Cookie Recipes – Bon Appétit

Additionally, you can find helpful baking tips at Bon Appétit or Serious Eats.