Introduction
Butter cookies are a quintessential treat, beloved for their simplicity and rich, buttery flavor. These cookies are light, crisp, and melt in your mouth, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea, package them up as a gift, or keep them on hand for a sweet snack, butter cookies are a timeless favorite.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Butter cookies have roots in European, particularly Danish, baking traditions. Danish butter cookies are famously packaged in decorative tins, often enjoyed around the holidays. The simplicity of the recipe, relying on quality butter for flavor, has made these cookies popular worldwide. They are often associated with festive occasions and symbolize warmth and hospitality.
Ingredients (Makes about 24-30 cookies)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract for variation)
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Additions
- Decorative Sugar or Sprinkles: Add to the top of the cookies before baking for a festive touch.
- Dipped in Chocolate: After baking, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for a decadent twist.
- Lemon or Orange Zest: Add a teaspoon of citrus zest to the dough for a bright, fresh flavor.
Tips for Success
- Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter mixes more easily with sugar, creating a smoother dough and resulting in a better texture.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps the cookies hold their shape.
- Even Baking: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time to ensure the cookies bake evenly.
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Shape the Cookies:
- For traditional round cookies, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass or your hand.
- For piped cookies, transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip and pipe onto the baking sheet in desired shapes (like rosettes or rings).
- Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended):
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill the dough for about 30 minutes to help the cookies maintain their shape.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as they can brown quickly.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Description
These butter cookies are crisp on the edges with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth center. The rich buttery flavor is complemented by a hint of vanilla, making them an irresistible treat. Perfect for pairing with a hot cup of tea or coffee, these cookies are as delightful to make as they are to eat.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: ~100 kcal
- Protein: ~1g
- Fat: ~6g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Sugar: ~4g
- Sodium: ~20mg
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While butter cookies are a treat, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. For a lighter version, consider reducing the sugar slightly or experimenting with whole wheat pastry flour for a bit more fiber. These cookies can also be made gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.