Classic Butter Cookies Recipe

Nothing beats the simple pleasure of biting into a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie. This Classic Butter Cookies Recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a holiday party, preparing for a bake sale, or just enjoying a cozy afternoon at home. These cookies are light, crisp, and incredibly easy to make, with just the right amount of sweetness. With a touch of chocolate or a sprinkle of festive decorations, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home!

What Are Classic Butter Cookies?

Butter cookies are a classic baked treat, known for their rich, buttery flavor and crisp, yet tender texture. Originating from Denmark, these cookies are often shaped in a variety of forms, from swirls to rounds, and are a staple in many holiday cookie tins. Their simple ingredients – butter, sugar, flour, and a touch of vanilla or almond extract – make them a timeless recipe that’s loved by all ages.

Ingredients for Perfect Butter Cookies

To make these delicious cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter at room temperature
• 2/3 cup (126g) granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla or almond extract
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) milk
• 10 oz Ghirardelli Chocolate Wafers (optional) for dipping
• Sprinkles (optional) for decoration

These simple, easy-to-find ingredients are all you need to whip up a batch of classic butter cookies that will delight your family and friends.

this RECIPE

Essential Kitchen Equipment

Before you start baking, make sure you have the following kitchen equipment ready:

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large piping bag with an Ateco 825 tip
• Silicone baking mat or parchment paper
• Large cookie sheet
• Wire rack for cooling
• Microwave-safe bowl (if dipping in chocolate)

Having these tools on hand will ensure a smooth baking process, allowing you to focus on creating perfect cookies every time.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large cookie sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a stand mixer or using a hand mixer, combine the unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg yolks one at a time, followed by the vanilla or almond extract, and continue to beat until everything is well incorporated.

3. Add the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture, beating on low speed until the dough begins to come together. Add the milk and continue to beat until the dough is smooth and stiff but still pliable.

4. Pipe the Cookies
Fit a large piping bag with an Ateco 825 tip. Place about 1 cup of dough into a separate piping bag, pressing it down to the bottom. Then, drop this dough-filled bag into the bag fitted with the piping tip. Pipe large swirls, about 1 ½ inches wide, onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.

5. Bake to Perfection
Bake one tray at a time on a room-temperature baking sheet for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are just beginning to turn golden. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Decorate with Chocolate and Sprinkles (Optional)
If you’d like to add a touch of chocolate, wait until the cookies are completely cooled. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt half of the Ghirardelli Chocolate Wafers at 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval to prevent burning. Dip each cookie halfway into the melted chocolate, tapping off any excess, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Decorate with sprinkles if desired.

Chocolate-Dipped and Decorated Variations

To elevate these butter cookies, try adding a chocolate dip or colorful sprinkles:

• Chocolate Dip: Use high-quality chocolate wafers or chips. Melt the chocolate carefully in the microwave, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
• Sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles immediately after dipping the cookies in chocolate for a fun, festive look.

These variations make the cookies more visually appealing and add a delightful crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-Baking: Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake; the edges should be just turning golden when they’re done.
• Under-Mixing: Make sure to fully incorporate all the ingredients, especially when adding the flour, to avoid uneven textures.
• Using Cold Butter: Always use room-temperature butter to ensure a smooth, even dough.

Storage Tips for Butter Cookies

Store your butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To extend their freshness, you can also refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze them for up to three months. Make sure to layer the cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these butter cookies on a decorative plate or tiered stand for an elegant presentation. Pair them with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of milk for a classic and comforting treat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but you may want to omit the additional salt in the recipe to prevent the cookies from being too salty.

2. Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before piping and baking.

3. Why did my cookies spread too much?
Over-creaming the butter and sugar or not chilling the dough can cause excessive spreading. Make sure to measure ingredients accurately and follow the instructions carefully.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Dough Too Soft: Chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before piping if the dough is too soft to handle.
• Burnt Edges: Check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer to ensure it’s accurate, and bake for the minimum time recommended.

Substitute and Variation Ideas

• Flavor Extracts: Substitute almond extract with lemon or orange extract for a citrusy twist.
• Add-ins: Mix in finely chopped nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.

Classic Butter Cookies Recipe Tips

• Use High-Quality Butter: The butter is the star ingredient, so choose a good-quality brand for the best flavor.
• Chill the Dough if Necessary: If the dough becomes too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for a few minutes to make piping easier.
• Experiment with Shapes: Don’t be afraid to try different piping tips and shapes for a variety of cookie designs.

Conclusion

These classic butter cookies are a delightful addition to any occasion, offering a simple yet irresistible flavor that’s hard to resist. With their light, crisp texture and buttery taste, they are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your creations and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!

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