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Classic Homemade Butter Cookies

classic homemade butter cookies - featured image

These classic homemade butter cookies are buttery, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth good, perfect for cozy holiday baking and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter, softened (European-style recommended)
  • 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (240 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon zest or orange zest
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
  • Optional: almond flour for gluten-free substitution
  • Optional: plant-based butter alternative for dairy-free baking

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup (227 g) softened unsalted butter with 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar using a hand or stand mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
  3. Mix in 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. If using zest or almond extract, fold it in now.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing.
  5. Roll dough into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls and place them 2 inches (5 cm) apart on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten each ball gently to about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick.
  6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges turn light golden brown and surface looks set but not browned.
  7. Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

If dough is too soft or sticky, chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before shaping. Avoid overmixing flour to keep cookies tender. Use parchment or silicone mats to prevent sticking and promote even baking. Start checking cookies at 12 minutes to avoid overbaking.

Nutrition

Keywords: butter cookies, classic cookies, holiday baking, easy cookies, homemade cookies, buttery cookies, vanilla cookies