Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the large egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix; you want to gently combine them until just mixed.
- Scoop rounded balls of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each.
- If desired, sprinkle a little extra sugar on top of each ball for added sweetness and sparkle.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers will look soft, but they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy these delightful cookies!
How to serve Butter Cookies
These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your serving game with a few simple ideas:
- Tea or Coffee Pairing: Serve your butter cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee for the perfect afternoon treat.
- Dessert Platter: Arrange them on a decorative platter alongside other sweets such as brownies or chocolate truffles for an impressive dessert spread.
- Gift Idea: Package them in a cute box tied with a ribbon; they make an excellent homemade gift for friends and family.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your delicious butter cookies fresh:
- Room Temperature: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Reheating: If you want to enjoy them warm, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or into a preheated oven until warm.
Helpful cooking tips
- Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is softened but not melted for the best texture.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dry ingredients just until combined to prevent tough cookies.
- Experiment: Don’t hesitate to add in chocolate chips, nuts, or citrus zest to spice things up!
Creative twists
There are numerous ways to give these classic butter cookies your personal touch:
- Citrus Infusion: Add lemon or orange zest for a refreshing twist.
- Spices: A hint of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the flavor.
- Chocolate Dips: Dip half of each cooled cookie in melted chocolate for a luxurious finish.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare the butter cookies?
The total time from prep to baked cookies is approximately 30 minutes—perfect for a last-minute treat!
Can I substitute the egg for a vegan alternative?
Yes! You can use a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture instead of the egg. Just mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit until it thickens, and then add it to your mixture.
How can I tell when the cookies are done?
Look for edges that are lightly golden brown. They might look soft in the middle, but they’ll firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
Now that you’re armed with this butter cookie recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start baking! Enjoy the delightful process and, most importantly, the spectacular results. Happy baking!
