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World’s Best Butter Cookies

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These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are simple, classic, and utterly irresistible. Perfect for holidays, afternoon tea, or any time you crave a timeless treat, this recipe delivers delicate cookies with a rich, buttery flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Makes about 24 cookies

  • 1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
  2. Cream the butter and sugar:
    • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add the vanilla:
    • Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
  4. Mix in the dry ingredients:
    • Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing on low speed until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
  5. Shape the cookies:
    • Scoop or roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Alternatively, use a piping bag with a star tip to create shapes. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  6. Bake the cookies:
    • Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. The cookies should remain pale on top.
  7. Cool and serve:
    • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of almond extract or lemon zest to the dough.
  • Decorate the cookies with a sprinkle of sugar before baking or drizzle melted chocolate over them after they cool.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.