Classic Buttery Vanilla Cookies

Butter cookies are a timeless treat that brings comfort and joy with every bite. Their delicate, buttery texture and subtle sweetness make them a perfect snack for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple afternoon tea. This recipe for classic butter cookies is easy to follow and yields perfectly golden, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups (320g) all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Colored sprinkles or coarse sugar (optional, for decorating)

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes, creating a smooth base for your cookies.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, making sure everything is well combined. This adds richness and flavor to the dough.
4. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until the dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
6. Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each ball gently with the bottom of a glass or your hand. If desired, decorate with colored sprinkles or coarse sugar for a festive touch.
7. Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
8. Cool the Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set and become perfectly crisp.

Conclusion

These classic butter cookies are a delightful treat that’s simple yet incredibly satisfying. Whether you enjoy them plain or decorated with sprinkles, they’re sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Serve them at your next gathering, gift them to friends, or keep a batch on hand for when you need a little sweetness in your day. Happy baking!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies