World’s Best Butter Cookies Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2️⃣ Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes. This step is key to that delicate texture.
3️⃣ Add Vanilla and Egg Yolk:
Mix in the vanilla extract and egg yolk until fully combined and smooth.
4️⃣ Add the Flour and Salt:
Gradually mix in the flour and salt, stirring until a soft dough forms. The dough will be thick but not sticky.
5️⃣ Shape the Cookies:
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Flatten slightly with the palm of your hand or use a cookie stamp for pretty designs. If desired, sprinkle a little sugar or add festive toppings now.
6️⃣ Bake to Perfection:
Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. The centers should still look pale. Don’t overbake—these cookies are all about delicate texture!
7️⃣ Cool and Serve:
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy with coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk!
Pro Tips for Cookie Perfection:
- Use good-quality butter: The flavor really shines through in this simple recipe.
- Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined for the best tender texture.
- Chill if needed: If the dough feels too soft to handle, chill it for 20 minutes before shaping.
Why You’ll Love These Butter Cookies:
- Timeless Classic: Perfectly simple, always satisfying.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The dough can be chilled or frozen.
- Versatile: Dress them up with chocolate, sprinkles, or jam for endless variations.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approx.):
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 1g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fat: 7g
- Sugar: 5g
FAQ About Butter Cookies:
Can I use salted butter instead?
Yes—just reduce or omit the added salt.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! Roll into a log, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Slice and bake when ready.
Can I pipe the dough into shapes?
This dough is thick, so it’s not ideal for piping. For piped cookies, try a Danish butter cookie recipe.
Common Problems and Fixes:
- Cookies spreading too much?
Make sure the butter isn’t too soft and chill the dough briefly before baking. - Dry or crumbly cookies?
Be careful not to overbake—pull them out when the edges just turn golden.
Flavor Variations You Can Try:
- Lemon Butter Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest for a bright twist.
- Almond Butter Cookies: Replace vanilla with almond extract.
- Chocolate Dipped: Dip cooled cookies halfway in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed nuts or sea salt.
Perfect for Every Occasion:
From holiday cookie swaps to everyday treats, these butter cookies are the definition of simple joy. They’re beautiful in a tin, delicious with coffee, and totally irresistible warm from the oven.
Success with World’s Best Butter Cookies:
Soft, crisp, buttery perfection—these cookies are the kind you keep coming back to. Make one batch, and we guarantee there’ll be another right behind it!
Tried this recipe? Tag your cookie pics—we’d love to see your golden, buttery masterpieces!
