Whether you’re planning a cozy afternoon tea or simply want to surprise your family with a delectable treat, nothing quite beats the classic and comforting taste of butter cookies. These delightful cookies are buttery, slightly sweet, and simply melt in your mouth. Perfect for any occasion, they can be enjoyed with a cup of hot tea or coffee, or wrapped up beautifully as a thoughtful homemade gift. In this recipe, we will guide you through creating the best butter cookies that are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
**Recipes For The Best Butter Cookies**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ teaspoon salt
– Additional granulated sugar for sprinkling (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Cream the Butter and Sugar:** In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This can be easily done with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes.
3. **Add the Egg and Vanilla:** Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well until fully combined.
4. **Incorporate the Flour and Salt:** Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
5. **Shape the Cookies:** Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place the cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. **Optional Step – Sprinkle with Sugar:** For an extra touch of sweetness and crunch, lightly sprinkle the cookie dough balls with granulated sugar before baking.
7. **Bake the Cookies:** Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies will still be soft when you remove them from the oven but will firm up as they cool.
8. **Cool and Enjoy:** Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The butter cookies are now ready to be enjoyed!
These butter cookies are perfect for any occasion and can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, these delightful cookies are sure to brighten your day. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and let the aroma of freshly baked butter cookies fill your home with warmth and comfort. Happy baking!
