Description
These World’s Best Butter Cookies are buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats that are perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make these delicate cookies that are crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. The rich vanilla flavor and smooth texture make them a favorite for everyone!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 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
- Beat the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. - Add the Egg Yolk
Add the egg yolk to the butter mixture and continue mixing until fully incorporated. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing. - Incorporate the Flour
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and mix until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix the dough. - Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead a few times until smooth and cohesive. - Chill the Dough
Shape the dough into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for several hours or freeze it for later use. - Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. - Slice and Bake
Once the dough is chilled, slice it into 1/8-inch thick rounds. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about an inch apart.
Bake for 16-18 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden. - Cool and Serve
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- If you want to make these cookies ahead of time, freeze the dough after step 5 and bake them when you’re ready.
- Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking and ensures they hold their shape.
- These cookies can be easily decorated with sprinkles or a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 16-18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (out of 24)
- Calories: 95 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 25mg