These Classic Butter Cookies are wonderfully crisp around the edges, tender in the center, and rich with buttery vanilla flavor. They’re incredibly simple to make and perfect with coffee, tea, or as an everyday sweet treat.
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Extra sugar for rolling, optional
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Make the Dough
Beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla and mix until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
2. Chill
Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
3. Slice and Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. If desired, roll the chilled dough logs in extra sugar. Slice into ¼-inch rounds and arrange on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
4. Cool and Serve
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once completely cool, store in an airtight container.
💡 Tips for Perfect Butter Cookies
Use softened butter rather than melted butter for the best texture. Avoid overmixing once the flour is added, as this can make the cookies less tender. For extra flavor, try adding a little almond extract, or dip half of each cooled cookie in melted chocolate for a beautiful finishing touch.
☕ Serving Ideas
Enjoy these buttery cookies with coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or a cold glass of milk. They also make a lovely addition to holiday cookie trays and homemade gift boxes.
❤️ Final Thoughts
With their simple ingredients and irresistible buttery flavor, these cookies are a timeless classic. Keep a batch on hand whenever you need an easy homemade treat that everyone will love. Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chilling Time: 1 hour | Baking Time: 10–12 minutes | Total Time: About 1 hour 27 minutes