Basic Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Tap the ingredients you have on hand
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened≈ $1.30
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar≈ $0.15
- 2 large egg yolks≈ $0.80
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour≈ $2.00
- 1/2 tsp salt≈ $0.10
Prices are rough US grocery estimates per ingredient and may vary by store and season.
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- 3
Beat in the egg yolks one at a time until well combined.
- 4
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing on low speed until just combined and a soft dough forms.
- 5
Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes or roll into small balls and flatten slightly.
- 6
Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
- 7
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- 8
Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
About this recipe
Discover the timeless appeal of classic butter cookies, a simple yet elegant treat perfect for any occasion. These delicate, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread-style biscuits are incredibly versatile, ideal for holiday baking, afternoon tea, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Learn how to bake basic butter cookies that are wonderfully crisp and rich, ready in just about 30 minutes.
Crafting the perfect butter cookie recipe from scratch doesn't require a long list of ingredients or complicated steps. Our easy butter cookie recipe uses pantry staples to create a delicious dessert that's comforting and satisfying. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, these traditional European cookies are a delightful project.
The story behind it
The tradition of butter cookies dates back centuries in European culinary history, often associated with festive occasions and royal tables. Originating from shortbread-style recipes, these cookies were prized for their rich butter flavor and simple elegance, making them a staple in Danish, Scottish, and French baking. This particular recipe captures the essence of those classic techniques, bringing a piece of that comforting heritage into your home kitchen.
Chef's tips
- 1Ensure your unsalted butter is genuinely softened, not melted, to achieve the ideal creamy texture when creaming with sugar.
- 2Measure your flour accurately by weight if possible, or by spooning it into a measuring cup and leveling off, to prevent dense cookies.
- 3Do not overmix the dough once the flour is added, as this can develop gluten and result in tough cookies.
- 4Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading and maintain defined cookie shapes.
- 5Bake cookies until the edges are just barely golden, then cool completely on a wire rack to ensure crispness.
Ways to make it your own
Add one tablespoon of fresh lemon zest to the butter and sugar mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Once cooled, dip half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate and let it set on parchment paper.
Replace half a teaspoon of salt with half a teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty aroma and taste.
Press colorful sprinkles into the top of the cookies before baking for a festive, kid-friendly treat.
Frequently asked
What makes butter cookies spread too much?+
Cookies often spread excessively if the butter was too warm, the dough wasn't chilled sufficiently, or too much leavening agent was accidentally added.
Can I use salted butter for butter cookies?+
While unsalted butter is preferred for better control over salt content, you can use salted butter by omitting the added salt in the recipe.
How do I store butter cookies to keep them fresh?+
Store baked butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain their crispness.
Why are my butter cookies crumbly?+
Crumbly cookies often result from too much flour or insufficient mixing to fully hydrate the flour with the butter and egg yolks.
Can I freeze butter cookie dough?+
Yes, you can wrap the dough tightly and freeze it for up to 3 months; thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.