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Classic Butter Cookies

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3.9 from 23 reviews

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.

Ingredients

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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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/classic-butter-cookies/