Thank you for being here—truly. There’s something deeply comforting about a recipe that doesn’t try too hard. These Classic Butter Cookies are exactly that: rich, simple, and utterly dependable. Crisp at the edges, tender in the center, and full of real butter flavor.
these are classic butter cookies made with real butter, vanilla, and a soft, bakery-style dough. If you love timeless baking recipes like this, don’t forget to subscribe to my email list—I share the classics and the cozy ones there first.
Overview of Recipe Content
Classic butter cookies are a traditional American-style cookie, often enjoyed during holidays, tea time, or as everyday treats. They’re easy to shape, pipe, or roll, making them endlessly versatile.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, buttery flavor
- Simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for piping or shaping
- Great for holidays and gifting
- Freezer-friendly dough
What They Taste Like
Pure butter goodness with a gentle sweetness and soft crumb. Think shortbread’s lighter cousin—elegant, delicate, and comforting.
Baking Benefits
- No chilling required (optional)
- Holds shape beautifully
- Works for cut-out or piped cookies
Full Ingredient List
Ingredients
- 250g unsalted butter, room temperature
- 150g powdered sugar (or fine granulated sugar)
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla flavor or vanilla extract
- 450–500g all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg or milk flavor
Optional Add-Ins
- Lemon or orange zest
- Almond extract (¼ tsp)
- Chocolate dip or jam centers
How to Make Classic Butter Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar together until pale, light, and fluffy—about 3 minutes. This step builds that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 2: Add Egg & Vanilla
Mix in the egg and vanilla until fully incorporated. The dough should look smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually add flour and salt (and nutmeg or milk flavor if using). Mix just until a soft, pliable dough forms. Start with 450g flour and add more only if needed.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Pipe using a pastry bag, roll into logs and slice, or shape into small rounds. Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden but centers remain pale.
Step 6: Cool
Let cookies cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
What to Serve with Classic Butter Cookies
- Hot tea or coffee
- A glass of cold milk
- Fresh fruit preserves
- Perfect alongside:
Tips for Making It Perfect
- Use room-temperature butter
- Don’t overmix once flour is added
- For piping, keep dough soft but firm
- Rotate pans for even baking
- Bake until just golden—overbaking dries them out
Storage Instructions
- Room temperature: up to 5 days in airtight container
- Refrigerator: up to 7 days
- Freezer: freeze baked cookies or raw dough up to 2 months
- Thaw at room temperature before serving
General Information
Butter cookies have long been a staple in American and European baking, especially during holidays. Their simplicity makes them a perfect base for endless variations—from dipped chocolate to festive decorations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is strongly recommended for flavor and texture.
Can I pipe these cookies?
Yes! This dough works beautifully for piping.
Why is my dough too stiff?
You may have added too much flour—add a teaspoon of milk if needed.
Can I make these egg-free?
The egg adds structure; removing it will change texture.
Conclusion
These Classic Butter Cookies are timeless for a reason—simple, elegant, and deeply satisfying. If you loved these, try my vanilla shortbread cookies or jam thumbprints next. Thank you for baking with me—save a few for tomorrow
Interactive Elements
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Comment with your favorite cookie shapes
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Nutritional Information (Per Cookie – Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 13g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Sodium | 55mg |
Classic Butter Cookies: 7 Timeless Reasons These Melt-in-Your-Mouth Cookies Never Fail
- Total Time: PT30M
- Yield: 30 cookies 1x
Description
These classic butter cookies are rich, tender, and melt in your mouth. Made with simple ingredients and real butter, they’re perfect for holidays or everyday baking.
Ingredients
250g unsalted butter, room temperature
150g powdered sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla flavor
450–500g all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg or milk flavor
Instructions
1.
2. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add egg and vanilla; mix well.
4. Gradually mix in flour and salt.
5. Shape or pipe cookies onto baking sheet.
6. Bake at 350°F for 12–15 minutes.
7. Cool before serving.
8.
Notes
Use room temperature butter for best texture.
Do not overbake—cookies should stay pale.
Dough can be piped or shaped.
- Prep Time: PT15M
- Cook Time: PT15M
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Table of Contents
Gianna Poulef
I’m Gianna Poulef from Poulef Recipes. I love sharing perfected dishes from my kitchen. I’m sure they’ll earn a spot in your heart. Let’s savor this journey together!.
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