Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Butter Flavor: The generous amount of butter imparts a rich, melt-in-your-mouth taste.
- Tender Texture: The combination of butter and egg yolks creates a soft, delicate crumb.
- Versatile Decoration: Their simple shape makes them ideal for various decorations, from sprinkles to chocolate dips.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup (2 sticks / 227 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- ⅔ cup (133 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large egg yolks, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2-3 tablespoons whole milk, room temperature
Directions
-
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, using a hand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and kosher salt, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- If the dough is too stiff, add whole milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is pliable but still slightly sticky.
-
Shape the Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a piping bag fitted with a star tip, pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheet in desired shapes, such as swirls or rosettes.
- If you don’t have a piping bag, you can also scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them on the baking sheet, pressing down slightly to flatten.
-
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 24-30 cookies, depending on size and shape.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Variations
- Decorations: Before baking, sprinkle colored sugar or nonpareils on top of the unbaked cookies for a festive touch.
- Dipping: Once cooled, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and let set for an elegant finish.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a pinch of cinnamon or almond extract to the dough for a unique flavor twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain fresh for up to one week.
- Freezing: To freeze the dough, pipe the desired shapes onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough shapes to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to bake, preheat the oven and bake the frozen cookies as directed, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
It’s recommended to use unsalted butter to control the amount of salt in the recipe. If using salted butter, reduce the added salt to a pinch.
How can I make the dough ahead of time?
You can refrigerate the dough, wrapped in plastic wrap, for up to 3 days. Before baking, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly for easier handling.
Can I freeze the baked cookies?
Yes, once cooled, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be stored frozen for up to 3 months.
Are these cookies suitable for decorating?
Absolutely! These cookies have a sturdy yet tender texture, making them ideal for various decorating techniques, including piping royal icing or adding sprinkles.
Conclusion
These Butter Cookies offer a delightful combination of rich flavor and tender texture, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Their versatility allows for various decorations and flavor enhancements, ensuring they can be tailored to suit your preferences and festivities. Enjoy baking and sharing these delectable cookies with your loved ones!
Print
Butter Cookies
- Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes
- Yield: 24-30 cookies (depending on size and shape)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Butter Cookies are melt-in-your-mouth, tender treats that are perfect for any occasion. With a rich buttery flavor and delicate texture, these cookies serve as an excellent base for decorations. Whether enjoyed on their own or adorned with sprinkles or chocolate, these cookies are sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks / 227 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- ⅔ cup (133 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large egg yolks, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp kosher salt
- 2–3 tbsp whole milk, room temperature
Instructions
. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, using a hand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and kosher salt, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- If the dough is too stiff, add whole milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is pliable but still slightly sticky.
2. Shape the Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a piping bag fitted with a star tip, pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheet in your desired shapes (e.g., swirls or rosettes).
- If you don’t have a piping bag, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them on the baking sheet, pressing down slightly to flatten.
3. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Decorations: Before baking, sprinkle colored sugar or nonpareils on top of the unbaked cookies for a festive touch.
- Dipping: Once cooled, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and let it set for an elegant finish.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a pinch of cinnamon or almond extract to the dough for a unique flavor twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Cookies, Holiday Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
