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Classic Butter Cookies These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are a timeless treat that everyone will love. They’re perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just because! The dough is easy to work with, and the cookies hold their shape beautifully when baked. Plus, they’re delicious plain or decorated with a simple icing.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 2 cups unsalted butter, softened (I use Imperial or any high-quality butter)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
For the Icing (optional):
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup milk (adjust as needed for consistency)
Instructions
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until the dough comes together. It should be soft but not sticky.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight). You can also freeze the dough for up to 1 month if you want to bake it later.
Step 5: Roll and Cut
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll out the cool dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut into desired shapes.
Step 6: Bake
Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just slightly golden. The centers should remain soft.
Step 7: Cool and Decorate
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before icing.
Icing Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
- Adjust the consistency as needed:
- Too thin? Add more powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Too thick? Add a tiny amount of milk, 1 teaspoon at a time.
- Spoon the icing over the cooled cookies or use a piping bag for more detailed designs.
Tips for the Best Butter Cookies
- Keep the dough cool! Warm dough won’t hold its shape, so make sure it’s chilled before rolling and cutting.
- Don’t overbake. The cookies should be slightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center.
- Experiment with flavors. Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or citrus zest to the dough for a fun twist.
How to Store These Cookies
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Freeze the baked cookies (without icing) for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before decorating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to ¼ tsp.
Can I make these without icing?
Absolutely! These cookies are delicious plain or with a sprinkle of sugar before baking.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! This recipe doubles easily for larger batches.
Final Thoughts: The Perfect Butter Cookies!
These classic butter cookies are a dream come true for cookie lovers. They’re quick, easy, and incredibly versatile—perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a party, a family treat, or just because, these cookies are sure to be a hit!
If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out! Leave a review, snap a photo, and share it on Pinterest. I’d love to see your delicious creations!
More Easy Cookie Recipes to Try:
4-Ingredient Heath Toffee Cookies – A sweet and crunchy treat that’s ready in no time!
Fruity Pebbles Cookies – Fun, colorful, and perfect for dessert lovers.
TikTok Baked Feta Pasta
Happy baking! 😊
