Danish Butter Cookies Recipe
Danish butter cookies originated in Denmark, where butter has long been a prized ingredient in traditional baking. These cookies gained international fame thanks to their export in decorative tins, often seen as gifts during Christmas.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Sifter
- Piping bag with a star tip (optional)
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (225 g), softened
- Granulated sugar: ¾ cup (150 g)
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- All-purpose flour: 2 ¼ cups (280 g), sifted
- Milk: 2 tbsp
- Salt: ¼ tsp
- Optional toppings: granulated sugar, sprinkles, or melted chocolate for dipping.
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the DoughIn a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.Add the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing at low speed to prevent a floury mess.Add the milk and continue to mix until the dough is smooth and holds its shape. If the dough feels too stiff, add a teaspoon of milk at a time.
- Step 2: Shape the CookiesPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.Fill a piping bag fitted with a large star tip with the cookie dough. If you don’t have a piping bag, roll the dough into small balls and flatten slightly with a fork.Pipe or shape the dough into small circles or swirls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Step 3: Bake the CookiesBake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden.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.
- Step 4: Add Finishing Touches (Optional)Sprinkle the cookies with sugar before baking for a decorative finish.Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate once cooled for an elegant touch.Add festive sprinkles for a seasonal twist.