Description
Melt-In-Your-Mouth Butter Cookies are classic, tender treats with a delicate crumb and buttery flavor, perfect for holiday celebrations or everyday indulgence. These easy-to-make cookies feature a simple dough enriched with vanilla and a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. This step incorporates air for a tender texture.
- Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined, adding a warm, aromatic note to the dough.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix as it can toughen the cookies.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop the dough by the tablespoon and roll into smooth balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading. Press each ball gently with a fork or the bottom of a glass to create a classic pattern.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn just barely golden while the centers remain pale and soft.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, dust the cooled cookies with additional powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Notes
- For a festive variation, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and decorate with sprinkles or crushed nuts.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European-Inspired