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Butter Cookies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 116 reviews

Classic butter cookies that are soft, buttery, and perfect for any occasion. These easy-to-make cookies use simple ingredients and a piping technique to achieve a beautiful shape and tender texture. They are lightly sweetened with vanilla and have a subtle salt balance to enhance the buttery flavor.

Ingredients

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Cookie Dough

  • 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened (use high-quality, name brand butter)
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar
  • 1 Large egg
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
  • 2 cups All-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon Salt
  • 1–2 tablespoons Milk (or more if needed; any kind)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Set aside while you prepare the dough.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl or using a stand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium-low speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar. Continue beating on medium-low speed until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
  4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture, mixing just until fully combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
  5. Add Milk for Consistency: Add milk one tablespoon at a time, just enough to reach a piping consistency that holds shape but is soft enough to pipe. You may need between 1 and 2 tablespoons depending on your flour.
  6. Pipe the Cookies: Transfer the cookie dough to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small circles of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. If desired, decorate with sprinkles. Chill the baking sheets in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes so the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
  7. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies begin to turn a light golden brown.
  8. Cool Before Serving: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet before serving to ensure they set properly and are easy to handle.

Notes

  • Use high-quality, name brand unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overmix the dough after adding flour to avoid tough cookies.
  • Adjust the milk amount carefully to reach piping consistency; too much milk will make the dough too soft.
  • Chilling the cookie dough after piping is crucial to help the cookies hold their shape during baking.
  • Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Keywords: butter cookies, classic cookies, homemade cookies, easy cookie recipe, vanilla butter cookies

Find it online: https://cookwithruby.com/butter-cookies-recipe/