Simple Butter Cookies Recipe: A Deliciously Easy Treat
Are you craving a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treat that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further than this simple butter cookies recipe! This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet delivering maximum flavor and satisfaction. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these buttery, crumbly delights!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it incredibly convenient. You probably already have most of them in your pantry!
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter is key for a smooth and creamy dough. Don't melt it!
- 1 cup granulated sugar: This provides sweetness and helps create a tender texture.
- 2 large eggs: These bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor and adds a touch of elegance.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for your cookies.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these easy steps to create your perfect butter cookies:
1. Creaming the Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is best done using an electric mixer, but you can also do it by hand, though it will take a bit more effort.
2. Adding the Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined.
3. Incorporating the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Shaping and Baking the Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). You can use a cookie scoop for consistent size.
- Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
5. Cooling and Enjoying:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Butter Cookies:
- Don't overbake: Overbaked cookies will be dry and hard. Start checking them at 10 minutes.
- Chill the dough (optional): For easier handling and to prevent the cookies from spreading too much, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Get creative with flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or other spices to the dough for a unique twist. You can also add chocolate chips or sprinkles!
- Store properly: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Enjoy Your Homemade Butter Cookies!
This simple butter cookies recipe is a perfect way to enjoy a delicious homemade treat without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be enjoying these buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies in no time! So, gather your ingredients, and get baking! Remember to share your creations and tag us! Happy baking!