These classic Soft Butter Cookies have a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a rich, buttery flavor. Lightly sweetened and beautifully swirled, they are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. Their simplicity and elegance make them ideal for any occasion, from afternoon snacks to holiday treats.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients – Made with just a few pantry staples.
- Melt-in-your-mouth texture – Soft, buttery, and lightly crisp at the edges.
- Perfect with tea or coffee – A delicate treat that pairs beautifully with warm beverages.
- Beautifully piped swirls – Elegant cookies that look as good as they taste.
- Quick and easy – No chilling required, ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the flour and salt until fully combined.
- Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheet in swirls.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool completely before serving. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories per serving: 180 kcal
Variations
- Chocolate-Dipped Butter Cookies: Dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate and let them set.
- Lemon Butter Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for a fresh citrus twist.
- Almond-Flavored Cookies: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty aroma.
- Spiced Butter Cookies: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor.
- Sandwich Cookies: Spread jam or chocolate ganache between two cookies for a delightful treat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked piped dough for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes.
- Reheating: These cookies do not need reheating, but if desired, warm them slightly in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt to balance the flavor.
Why is my dough too stiff to pipe?
If the dough is too firm, let it soften slightly at room temperature or add 1-2 teaspoons of milk.
Can I use granulated sugar instead of powdered sugar?
Powdered sugar helps create a softer texture, but you can use granulated sugar if needed. The cookies may be slightly more crisp.
Do I need to chill the dough?
No chilling is required, but chilling for 10-15 minutes can help the cookies hold their shape better when piping.
What piping tip should I use?
A large star tip, such as Wilton 1M or 2D, works best for creating elegant swirls.
Can I make these cookies without a piping bag?
Yes, you can roll the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly with a fork before baking.
How do I make my cookies extra crispy?
Bake for an additional 1-2 minutes until the edges turn golden brown.
Can I add sprinkles or decorations?
Yes, sprinkle colored sugar or nonpareils on top before baking for a festive touch.
What is the best way to serve these cookies?
They are perfect with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate, and they also make a great gift when packaged beautifully.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in batches as needed.
Conclusion
Soft Butter Cookies are an easy and elegant treat with a classic buttery flavor and delicate texture. Whether enjoyed with a warm drink, gifted to loved ones, or served at special gatherings, these cookies are a timeless delight. Try this simple recipe and experience the joy of homemade butter cookies!
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PrintSoft Butter Cookies
Classic soft and buttery cookies with a melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicate swirls—perfect with a cup of tea or coffee!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert, Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Classic, European
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: In a bowl, cream butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Vanilla & Dry Ingredients: Mix in vanilla extract, then gradually add flour and salt until fully combined.
- Pipe the Dough: Transfer dough to a piping bag with a star tip and pipe swirls onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are slightly golden.
- Cool & Enjoy: Let cookies cool completely before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate or dust with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
- If the dough is too firm to pipe, let it soften slightly at room temperature or add 1-2 teaspoons of milk.
Nutrition
- Calories: 180 kcal per serving