Why Make This Recipe
Butter cookies are a classic favorite that everyone loves. They are simple to make and require just a few basic ingredients. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to enjoy as a tasty treat at home, these cookies will satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, they are perfect for sharing with family and friends!
How to Make Butter Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually blend in the flour and salt until the dough forms.
- Drop by rounded spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let cool on wire racks.
How to Serve Butter Cookies
Butter cookies can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Serve them on a nice plate or in a jar for a delightful homemade gift. They also pair well with a glass of milk, tea, or coffee!
How to Store Butter Cookies
To keep your butter cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Butter Cookies
- For best results, use room temperature butter to make mixing easier.
- Do not overbake the cookies; they should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out.
- Experiment with different add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for more flavor.
- Use a cookie scoop for even-sized cookies.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking if you want thicker cookies.
Variation
You can enhance butter cookies by adding zest from lemon or orange for a citrus twist. Another option is to sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm spice flavor.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt to 1/4 teaspoon.Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days.What can I do if my dough is too soft?
If the dough is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to help it firm up.How do I know when the cookies are done?
They should be golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center.Can I add chocolate chips to these cookies?
Yes, you can fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips before dropping them onto the cookie sheets for a delicious variation.

Butter Cookies
Delicious and simple butter cookies perfect for any occasion, easy to make with basic ingredients.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually blend in the flour and salt until the dough forms.
- Drop by rounded spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let cool on wire racks.
Notes
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week; freeze for up to three months if wrapped well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 92
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg