Description
These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are a timeless treat—simple to make, endlessly versatile, and perfect with tea or coffee. With just 4 ingredients, this slice-and-bake method ensures crisp edges, a tender center, and a heavenly vanilla aroma.
Ingredients
Scale
- 200g softened butter (use high-fat, unsalted butter for best results)
- 120g granulated sugar (or powdered sugar for extra tenderness)
- 280g all-purpose flour (sifted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (or almond extract for variation)
Instructions
1. Cream Butter & Sugar
- In a bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). Tip: The butter should be cool but yield to gentle pressure—not melted!
2. Add Vanilla
- Mix in vanilla extract (or other flavorings) until combined.
3. Incorporate Flour
- Gradually add sifted flour, mixing just until the dough comes together. Don’t overmix—this keeps cookies tender!
4. Shape the Dough
- Roll the dough into a log (about 5cm diameter) using plastic wrap.
- Chill for 1 hour (or freeze for 30 minutes if in a hurry). This prevents spreading!
5. Slice & Bake
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a tray with parchment.
- Cut 1cm-thick slices and place them 2cm apart (they expand slightly).
- Bake for 11-12 minutes until the edges turn golden. They’ll firm up as they cool!
6. Cool & Enjoy
- Let rest on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack.