Introduction
Butter cookies are a timeless classic that have been enjoyed for generations. These simple yet delectable treats are known for their rich, buttery flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The recipe we’re sharing today comes from the beloved food blog, Cooking Classy, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re looking for a sweet snack to enjoy with tea or coffee, or a delightful addition to your holiday cookie platter, these butter cookies are the perfect choice.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl or stand mixer, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each portion into a log about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Remove the chilled dough logs from the refrigerator and unwrap them. Using a sharp knife, slice the logs into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheets, about 1 inch apart.
- Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Flavor Profile
These butter cookies from Cooking Classy are the epitome of simplicity and deliciousness. The rich, buttery flavor is the star of the show, with a hint of sweetness from the granulated sugar and a subtle vanilla aroma. The cookies have a delightful texture – crisp around the edges and tender in the center, with a melt-in-your-mouth quality that makes them irresistible.
The beauty of these butter cookies lies in their versatility. They’re perfect for enjoying on their own as a simple, satisfying treat, but they also provide a wonderful canvas for creative variations and decorations.
Serving Suggestions
These butter cookies are perfect for enjoying in a variety of ways:
- Serve them alongside a cup of tea, coffee, or hot cocoa for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Include them on a holiday cookie platter for a classic, crowd-pleasing addition.
- Package them in decorative tins or bags for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Use them as a base for creative decorations, such as dipping them in melted chocolate or frosting them with colorful icing.
Variations
- Chocolate Chip Butter Cookies: Fold 1 cup of mini chocolate chips into the dough before shaping it into logs for a delicious chocolate twist.
- Lemon Butter Cookies: Add 1 tbsp of lemon zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy flavor. Optionally, drizzle the cooled cookies with a lemon glaze made from confectioners’ sugar and fresh lemon juice.
- Cinnamon Sugar Butter Cookies: Before baking, roll the sliced cookies in a mixture of 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 tsp ground cinnamon for a warm, spicy flavor.
- Almond Butter Cookies: Substitute 1/2 cup of the all-purpose flour with 1/2 cup of almond flour for a nutty variation. Optionally, press a whole almond into the center of each cookie before baking.
Conclusion
These butter cookies from Cooking Classy are a testament to the fact that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most delightful. With their rich, buttery flavor and tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies are sure to become a staple in your home. The recipe’s straightforward instructions and the ability to make the dough ahead of time make these cookies an excellent choice for busy bakers or anyone looking for a foolproof treat.
Whether you’re enjoying them on their own, sharing them with loved ones, or using them as a base for creative decorations, these butter cookies are a delicious way to add a touch of classic sweetness to your day. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the timeless joy of homemade butter cookies. Your taste buds will thank you!
