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Butter Cookies

Delicious homemade butter cookies that are soft, buttery, and perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Choose unsalted for better control of the flavors!
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar Adds that sweet touch!
  • 1 large egg yolk This creates a rich, tender texture.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract A splash of vanilla brings everything together!
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt Elevates the sweetness.
  • 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour The foundation of your cookies!
Optional Ingredients
  • 1 cup dark chocolate chips Because who doesn’t love a chocolate twist?
  • 1/2 teaspoon vegetable shortening Helps give a nice sheen to the chocolate coating.
  • as needed Nonpareil sprinkles For that cheerful touch!

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy and smooth.
  3. Mix in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
  4. Gradually add the flour on low speed until a soft and slightly sticky dough forms.
Piping and Baking
  1. Fit a piping bag with an Ateco 827 tip and spoon half of the dough into the bag.
  2. Pipe swirl shapes onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
  3. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are golden brown.
Finishing Touches
  1. Let the cookies cool for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
  2. Melt the chocolate chips and shortening together in the microwave, then dip the cooled cookies into the chocolate.
  3. Sprinkle with nonpareils if desired and allow the chocolate to harden before serving.

Notes

Time-saving trick: Prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for a couple of hours. If the dough is too soft to pipe, a quick chill will work wonders! Add a touch of lemon zest for a bright flavor twist.