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Butter Cookies (Danish Style)

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4 from 84 reviews

These classic Danish-style butter cookies are rich, buttery, and delightfully crisp on the outside while tender on the inside. Simple to prepare with basic ingredients, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether as a teatime treat or a festive holiday cookie. The use of powdered sugar yields a smooth texture, and piping the dough adds a charming decorative touch to each cookie.

Ingredients

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup (90 grams) powdered sugar
  • 2 cups (240 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Beat butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture becomes light, creamy, and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step ensures the cookies have a delicate crumb.
  2. Add vanilla and flour: Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and gently fold it into the butter mixture until just combined, forming a soft dough without overworking.
  3. Shape cookies: Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star nozzle or your preferred tip. Pipe small rosettes or shapes onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Alternatively, you can shape the dough into small balls or simple rounds by hand.
  4. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the cookies for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown. Watch carefully to avoid overbaking.
  5. Cool and serve: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents breakage and helps the cookies set perfectly.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking.
  • Use unsalted butter to control the salt content better.
  • The dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days before shaping and baking.
  • If piping is difficult, chill the dough slightly to firm it up.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.