These classic butter cookies are a timeless treat, perfect for any occasion. With their rich, buttery flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they’re a favorite during the holiday season or whenever I crave a simple, satisfying cookie.

Classic Butter Cookies Recipe

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s straightforward and uses simple ingredients that I usually have on hand. The cookies have a delicate texture and a rich buttery flavor that makes them irresistible. They’re perfect for gifting, sharing with friends, or enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
If desired, chill the dough for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or the palm of your hand.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 36 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 25-27 minutes

Variations

Chocolate-Dipped: After the cookies have cooled, dip half of each cookie into melted chocolate and let them set on parchment paper.
Sprinkles: Before baking, sprinkle colored sugar or nonpareils on top of each cookie for a festive touch.
Lemon Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy flavor.
Almond Extract: Substitute ½ teaspoon of almond extract for the vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Freezing: Freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: If desired, warm the cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes to refresh their texture.

FAQs

How do I prevent my butter cookies from spreading too much?

To prevent excessive spreading, make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. Also, avoid placing the dough on warm baking sheets.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to 1/8 teaspoon to compensate for the salt in the butter.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! Shape the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.

Why are my cookies hard instead of soft?

Overbaking can cause the cookies to become hard. Bake just until the edges are lightly golden, and the centers are set.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the dough?

Yes, you can mix in ½ cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the dough for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

These classic butter cookies are a delightful treat that I enjoy making and sharing. Their simple ingredients and rich flavor make them a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether I keep them plain or add a personal twist, they’re always a hit.