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Best Butter Cookies

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These Best Butter Cookies are melt-in-your-mouth delicious with a rich, buttery flavor and a tender crumb. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or a simple treat with your afternoon coffee, these classic cookies are easy to make and utterly irresistible.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Decorations:

  • Sanding sugar or sprinkles
  • Melted chocolate for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough:
    • In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
    • Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
    • Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
  2. Shape the Cookies:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
    • Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip for classic shapes, or roll the dough into 1-inch balls for a simpler design. Flatten the balls slightly with a fork or the bottom of a glass.
  3. Decorate (Optional):
    • If desired, sprinkle the cookies with sanding sugar or add decorations before baking.
  4. Bake:
    • Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
    • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  5. Optional Finishing Touches:
    • Drizzle or dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate and allow to set for an extra-special touch.

Notes

  • For a citrus twist, add 1 teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough.
  • These cookies store well in an airtight container for up to 1 week or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Make the dough ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Let it soften slightly before shaping and baking.