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Perfect Butter Cookies

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A simple and nostalgic butter cookie recipe that delivers a melt-in-your-mouth texture with buttery richness and tender crumb, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (60 grams) powdered sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 ½ cups (312 grams) all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder (optional)
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon or orange zest
  • Optional: almond extract
  • Optional: slivered almonds for topping

Instructions

  1. Soften unsalted butter at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  2. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until light, fluffy, and pale.
  3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until fully incorporated, scraping down the sides as needed.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder (if using).
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed or folding gently until a soft, pliable dough forms.
  6. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
  7. Lightly flour a work surface and rolling pin. Roll the chilled dough to about ¼-inch (6 mm) thickness. Cut shapes with cookie cutters and place on prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart.
  8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are just turning golden but centers remain slightly soft.
  9. Cool cookies on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Chilling the dough is essential to prevent spreading and achieve the perfect texture. Use room temperature eggs for better dough consistency. For a sweet-salty contrast, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before baking. Measure flour correctly by spooning and leveling to avoid dense cookies. Dough can be prepared ahead and refrigerated up to 3 days or frozen for a month.

Nutrition

Keywords: butter cookies, melt-in-your-mouth cookies, easy cookie recipe, holiday cookies, classic cookies, buttery cookies

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