Traditional Butter Cookies
Classic butter cookies that are easy to make and perfect for sharing, bringing warmth and nostalgia to every bite.
Servings: 34 cookies
Calories: 65kcal
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened to room temperature Use good quality butter for best flavor.
- 2/3 cup Powdered sugar Gives a delicate crumb.
- 1 large Egg yolk Adds richness and helps with structure.
- 1.5 teaspoons Vanilla extract Classic flavor that completes the cookies.
- 1/4 teaspoon Almond extract (optional) Adds a bakery-fancy touch.
- 2 cups plus 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour Measure lightly to avoid tough cookies.
- 1/4 teaspoon Fine salt Balances sweetness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Soften butter to about 60 to 65 degrees F; it should give slightly when pressed.
- Cream butter and powdered sugar together for 2 to 3 minutes until light and creamy.
- Add egg yolk and extracts, mixing just to combine.
- Fold in flour and salt on low speed or with a spatula until the dough just comes together.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes to help with shaping.
Baking
- Scoop dough into small balls (about 1 tablespoon) and gently press the tops to flatten slightly.
- Use a lined baking sheet; bake at 350 F for 11 to 13 minutes until edges are just turning golden.
- Let cookies rest on the tray for 2 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Notes
Store cooled cookies in an airtight tin for 7 to 10 days. Dough can be frozen for up to 2 months, baking from frozen may require additional minutes. Try rolling in coarse sugar before baking for sparkly edges.