Butter Cookies from Scratch Recipe

Introduction

Butter cookies are a timeless treat, beloved for their delicate crumb and rich, buttery flavor. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create these classic cookies that are perfect for any occasion or just a sweet everyday indulgence.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (use high-quality, name brand butter)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (any kind, adjust as needed)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar on medium-low speed until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Step 3: Add the egg and vanilla extract, continuing to beat on medium-low speed until smooth and well combined.
4. Step 4: Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing just until fully incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
5. Step 5: Add the milk one tablespoon at a time, using only as much as needed to achieve a consistency suitable for piping.
6. Step 6: Transfer the dough to a piping bag and pipe small circles onto the prepared baking sheet. Optionally, decorate with sprinkles. Chill the sheets in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to firm up.
7. Step 7: Bake the cookies for about 10 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown.
8. Step 8: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use high-quality butter for the best flavor and texture.
• Chilling the dough before baking helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances flavor.
• Add citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, for a fresh twist.
• Swap vanilla extract for almond extract to change the flavor profile.

Storage

Store cooled butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed container for up to three months. To reheat, allow frozen cookies to thaw at room temperature or warm gently in a low oven for a few minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid making the cookies too salty.

What can I use if I don’t have a piping bag?

You can shape the dough by hand into small balls or use two spoons to drop the dough onto the baking sheet, though the shape may be less uniform.

Butter Cookies from Scratch Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 111 reviews

Classic buttery cookies with a soft, tender texture and a rich vanilla flavor, perfect for piping and decorating. These butter cookies are easy to make and crisp up beautifully with golden edges, making them an ideal treat for any occasion.

• Author: Logan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened (use high-quality, name brand butter)
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1–2 tablespoons milk (any kind)

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 2 cups All purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside to prepare the dough.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium low speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creates the base texture for the cookies.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract on medium low speed until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, adding moisture and flavor to the dough.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture and mix just until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
5. Add Milk: Add the milk one tablespoon at a time, mixing just enough to achieve a piping consistency. Use the minimal amount needed to get the right dough texture.
6. Pipe the Cookies: Transfer the dough to a piping bag and pipe small circles onto the prepared baking sheet. Optionally, add sprinkles on top. Chill the baking sheets in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to help the cookies hold their shape.
7. Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until the edges start turning golden brown, indicating they are perfectly baked.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet before serving or storing.

Notes

• Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture.
• Do not overmix the dough after adding flour to avoid tough cookies.
• Chilling the piped dough helps maintain the cookie shapes during baking.
• You can add sprinkles for decoration before baking if you prefer.
• Milk type does not significantly affect the recipe; any kind can be used.

Keywords: butter cookies, classic cookies, vanilla cookies, piped cookies, easy dessert, soft cookies