Butter Cookies

Introduction

There’s something timeless and comforting about butter cookies. Their delicate texture and rich flavor make them a favorite in our home, especially during the holidays. I remember the first time I baked these cookies; my family couldn’t resist sneaking bites of the dough and later devoured the freshly baked treats. Each buttery bite brought smiles, making it clear that this recipe would become a staple in our kitchen. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a sweet treat after dinner, butter cookies never fail to impress.

Ingredients

• 8 oz unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

1. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Add Egg Yolk: Incorporate the egg yolk into the mixture, mixing until fully combined. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure all ingredients are well mixed.

Add Flour

3. Mix in Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture, mixing until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Shape and Chill

4. Knead and Shape: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times until smooth. Shape the dough into a log and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for several hours or freeze for later use.

Preheat Oven

5. Set the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.

Slice and Bake

6. Slice the Dough: Once chilled, slice the dough into 1/8-inch thick rounds. Place the slices about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
7. Bake: Bake the cookies for 16-18 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden brown.

Cool

8. Cool Down: Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 100
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 2-4 hours (or overnight)
• Cook Time: 16-18 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 38 minutes (including chilling time)

How to Serve

• On Their Own: Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or after they’ve cooled.
• With Tea or Coffee: Pair these cookies with your favorite hot beverage for a delightful afternoon snack.
• With Ice Cream: Sandwich a scoop of ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent treat.
• Decorated: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for an elegant touch.
• As Gifts: Package them in a decorative tin to share with friends and family.

Additional Tips

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
2. Chilling the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
3. Variations in Flavor: Experiment with different extracts, like almond or lemon, for a unique twist.
4. Customize Toppings: Add sprinkles or colored sugar before baking for a festive look.
5. Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies; they can quickly go from perfectly baked to overdone.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Chip Butter Cookies: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a delicious twist.
• Nutty Butter Cookies: Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added texture and flavor.
• Citrus Butter Cookies: Incorporate the zest of one lemon or orange for a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Spiced Butter Cookies: Add 1/2 tsp of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a selection of teas or coffee to create a delightful afternoon gathering.
• Offer with a variety of dips, such as chocolate or caramel sauce, for guests to enjoy.
• Present as part of a dessert platter alongside other homemade treats.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing Cookie Dough: Wrap the unbaked dough log tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.
• Storing Baked Cookies: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies, separating layers with parchment paper.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use salted butter?

• Yes, but reduce the added salt to 1/8 tsp.

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

• Yes, but the texture may be denser. Consider using a mix of both for better results.

1. What can I do if my dough is too crumbly?

• Add a teaspoon of cold water or milk to the dough and mix until it holds together.

1. How can I make these cookies more festive?

• Add colored sprinkles before baking or decorate with icing after they cool.

1. Can I double the recipe?

• Absolutely! Just ensure you have enough space to chill the dough and bake the cookies in batches.

1. How do I know when the cookies are done?

• The edges will start to turn golden, and the centers will look set.

1. Can I bake these cookies on a silicone mat?

• Yes, a silicone baking mat works well and prevents sticking.

1. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

• Make sure to chill the dough properly before baking.

1. What is the best way to frost butter cookies?

• Use a piping bag for precision or spread with a knife for a rustic look.

1. Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
   • Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Conclusion

Butter cookies are a delightful treat that can easily become a beloved favorite in any household. Their simplicity and versatility allow for endless variations and presentations, making them suitable for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them as a sweet snack or dress them up for a celebration, this classic recipe is sure to bring joy to your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and indulge in the deliciousness of homemade butter cookies!

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