Butter Cookie Recipe

Butter cookie recipe is a timeless classic, known for its rich, buttery flavor and crisp, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether served with a cup of coffee, enjoyed as an afternoon snack, or gifted during the holidays, these cookies are always a crowd favorite. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the rich butter flavor to shine through, making them a comforting and irresistible treat for all ages.

Brief History of Butter Cookies Recipe:

Originating from Denmark, butter cookies are often linked to the country’s strong tradition of baking. Known as “småkager” in Danish, which translates to “small cakes,” these cookies were traditionally enjoyed during the holiday season. Over time, butter cookies gained international popularity, often found in decorative tins, becoming a symbol of festive gatherings and celebrations across the globe. Danish butter cookies, in particular, are revered for their perfect balance of sweetness and rich butter flavor.

Butter Cookie Recipe

Pinklady

Originating from Denmark, butter cookies are often linked to the country’s strong tradition of baking. Known as "småkager" in Danish, which translates to "small cakes," these cookies were traditionally enjoyed during the holiday season.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Course Snack

Cuisine Denmark

Servings 24 Cookies

Calories 90 kcal

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Cookie cutter (optional)
• Wire cooling rack

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt

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Instructions

 

• In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that tender, crumbly texture.
• Crack in the egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until everything is well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture into the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a smooth dough forms. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
• Shape the dough into a disc and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is important because chilled dough is easier to handle and results in less spreading during baking.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
• Once the dough has chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to cut out your desired shapes, or simply roll the dough into small balls and flatten them gently with a fork for a classic look.
• Place the cookies about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking, as butter cookies can quickly turn from golden to burnt.
• Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set without breaking apart.

Video

Keyword Butter Cookie Recipe

Similar Recipes:

– Shortbread Cookies: Another buttery classic with fewer ingredients and a crumbly texture.
– Sugar Cookies: Sweeter than butter cookies and often decorated with icing.
– Danish Butter Cookies: A traditional version with a slightly crisper bite and iconic shapes.
– Spritz Cookies: Made using a cookie press, these cookies have a buttery base and are often adorned with colorful sprinkles.

Frequently Asked Questions About Butter Cookie Recipe:

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, but reduce the added salt to a pinch to avoid overly salty cookies.

2. Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely! Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before rolling and baking.

3. Why do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking and helps retain their shape.

4. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be slightly different, but they will still be delicious.

5. Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?

Yes! You can fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruit to customize your butter cookies.

6. How long do butter cookies last?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze baked cookies for longer storage.

7. Can I make these cookies without an electric mixer?

Yes, you can mix the dough by hand using a sturdy whisk or wooden spoon. Just ensure the butter is very soft for easier mixing.

8. What’s the difference between butter cookies and shortbread cookies?

Butter cookies contain eggs, which make them slightly lighter and crisper, whereas shortbread is denser and crumblier due to the absence of eggs.

9. Can I use flavored extracts?

Yes, you can replace the vanilla extract with almond, lemon, or any other flavored extract for a twist on the classic recipe.

10. Why are my cookies hard instead of soft?

Overbaking or using too much flour can make butter cookies hard. Be sure to bake just until the edges turn golden and avoid adding too much flour during mixing.

Conclusion:

Butter cookies are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that brings warmth and joy with every bite. Their simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make them perfect for bakers of all levels. Whether you’re making them for yourself or as a thoughtful gift, butter cookies never go out of style.

YouTube Video Credits:
The Cooking Foodie