If you have a soft spot for simple yet irresistible treats, then you’re going to adore these Classic Butter Cookies. They boast buttery richness that melts right on your tongue, a delicate crispness around the edges, and that perfect hint of vanilla that keeps you coming back for one more. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a thoughtful gift, or just because, these cookies are timeless crowd-pleasers that blend simplicity with a touch of elegance.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s fabulous about Classic Butter Cookies is how straightforward the ingredient list is, yet each item plays a starring role in crafting their signature flavor and texture. Every ingredient is carefully chosen to bring harmony, from the rich butter that gives the cookies their melt-in-your-mouth quality to the pure vanilla extract that infuses them with irresistible aroma.
- 8 oz unsalted butter, softened: The heart of the cookie, offering rich flavor and tender crumb.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that crisp edge.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract: Gives the cookies their warm, inviting fragrance.
- 1 large egg yolk: Binds the ingredients and adds richness without extra moisture.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and lightness to the dough.
How to Make Classic Butter Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Start by beating the softened butter with sugar, salt, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer or whisk until the mixture becomes smooth, creamy, and wonderfully fluffy. This step is key—it aerates the mixture, helping your cookies develop a tender but crisp texture.
Step 2: Incorporate the Egg Yolk
Add the egg yolk to the creamy butter-sugar mixture and blend until fully combined. The yolk enriches the dough, giving your cookies a delicate crumb without weighing them down.
Step 3: Add the Flour
Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, being careful not to overwork the dough. The goal is just to combine everything into a smooth dough, keeping the cookies tender and tenderly crumbly once baked.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently a few times until smooth. Then shape it into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chilling firms up the dough and helps maintain its shape during baking.
Step 5: Slice and Bake
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. Slice the chilled dough into very thin rounds, about 1/8-inch thick, and place them about an inch apart on the sheet. Bake for 16 to 18 minutes until the edges just start to turn a gentle golden color. The result is cookies that are crisp on the outside and tender, buttery clouds inside.
Step 6: Cool Before Enjoying
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. This is when they finish firming up to that perfect crispness. Once cooled, they’re ready to delight your taste buds or to be wrapped up as a thoughtful gift!
How to Serve Classic Butter Cookies
Garnishes
Classic Butter Cookies shine on their own, but adding simple garnishes can elevate their charm. Try a light dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy effect, a drizzle of melted chocolate for decadence, or a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts for extra texture. These touches add flair without overpowering the buttery simplicity.
Side Dishes
Pair your Classic Butter Cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a comforting afternoon treat. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can turn them into an elegant dessert, while some fresh berries provide a bright contrast to the rich cookies, balancing out each bite gracefully.
Creative Ways to Present
When it comes to presentation, these cookies are versatile. Arrange them in a charming tin or stack them neatly on a pretty platter decorated with sprigs of rosemary or holly for holiday occasions. You can also thread mini cookies onto ribbons for edible garlands or package them in cellophane bags tied with twine for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Classic Butter Cookies stay fresh and crisp when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent any moisture buildup that could soften their delicate snap.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these Classic Butter Cookies over a longer period, freeze the dough log wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. When ready to bake, slice and bake directly from the freezer—just add a minute or two to the baking time. Baked cookies can be frozen in airtight containers for up to 3 months and thawed at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
To refresh slightly softened cookies, warm them briefly in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for 5 minutes. This light reheating revives their crispness and buttery aroma, making them taste freshly baked again.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty cookies. Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness more precisely.
How thin should I slice the dough for baking?
Slice the dough into rounds about 1/8 inch thick for the perfect balance of crispness and tenderness that Classic Butter Cookies are known for.
What’s the secret to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture?
Using high-quality European-style butter and not overbaking the cookies ensures they stay tender and buttery with a delicate crisp edge.
Can I add flavors or mix-ins to this cookie recipe?
Absolutely! While the traditional flavor is delightful on its own, you can add citrus zest, almond extract, or even dip the cooled cookies in chocolate for a creative twist.
Why is it important to chill the dough before baking?
Chilling firms the dough which helps maintain the cookie’s shape during baking and also enhances the flavor as the ingredients meld together.
Final Thoughts
These Classic Butter Cookies are a wonderful example of how a few simple ingredients, treated with care and patience, can create something truly special. They are joyful to make and even more joyful to share, so I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe and experience the warm, buttery happiness that these cookies bring. Trust me, once you taste one, they’ll become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.
PrintClassic Butter Cookies
Classic Butter Cookies are buttery, crisp, and melt-in-your-mouth treats perfect for holiday platters, gift tins, or everyday enjoyment. Made with real unsalted butter, a touch of vanilla, and simple ingredients, these cookies are a timeless European dessert loved by all.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 36 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
Ingredients
Cookies
- 8 oz unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer or hand whisk. Add the egg yolk and mix until fully combined, scraping down the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
- Incorporate flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet mixture, mixing until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix to maintain the cookie’s tender texture.
- Shape and chill dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently a few times until smooth. Shape the dough into a log, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up the dough, or freeze for later use.
- Preheat and prepare baking sheets: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Slice and arrange cookies: Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and slice into ⅛-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife. Place the cookies about 1 inch apart on the lined baking sheets to allow for even spreading.
- Bake cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 16–18 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden brown. Avoid overbaking to keep them tender and crisp.
- Cool and serve: Transfer the baked cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely before serving or storing. This allows them to firm up and develop their crisp texture.
Notes
- Use high-quality European unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture.
- The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking.
- Perfect for Christmas cookie platters, holiday gift tins, or as everyday treats.
- You can freeze the dough log for later use, slicing and baking directly from frozen with minimal adjustment to baking time.