5-Star World’s Best Butter Cookies Recipe That Melts in Your Mouth

Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth, and downright irresistible

There’s something magical about the scent of butter cookies wafting through the kitchen. This recipe for the world’s best butter cookies is a treasured favorite, and once you try it, you’ll know why. Whether it’s for the holidays, a cozy afternoon treat, or a gift for someone special, these cookies are as easy to make as they are to love.

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World’s Best Butter Cookies Recipe Overview

These butter cookies are buttery, crisp-edged, and delicately sweet with a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. The dough is easy to work with, and the cookies bake into beautiful golden rounds. Perfect with tea, coffee, or tucked into a cookie tin for gifting.

• Flavor: Rich buttery base with a hint of vanilla
• Texture: Crisp on the edges, soft and crumbly inside
• Prep Time: Under 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 12-15 minutes

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Ingredients List

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• 8 oz unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1½ tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour

Optional: Sprinkle with coarse sugar before baking for extra sparkle and crunch.

Necessary Tools for Preparation

• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat

Step-by-Step Instructions

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1. Cream the Butter and Sugar
   In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
2. Add Vanilla and Egg Yolk
   Beat in the vanilla extract and egg yolk until just combined.
3. Add Dry Ingredients
   Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing on low speed until a dough forms.
4. Chill the Dough
   Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes (this helps keep the cookies from spreading).
5. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Shape and Bake
   Roll dough into small 1-inch balls or pipe into shapes. Place on the baking sheet, leaving 1 inch of space between each. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Cool and Serve
   Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Tips for Perfecting the World’s Best Butter Cookies Recipe

• Use high-quality butter for the richest flavor.
• Chill the dough to help cookies hold their shape.
• Add a touch of almond extract for a fun variation.
• For festive flair, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and sprinkle with nuts or crushed peppermint.

What to Serve With It

• A warm mug of coffee, hot cocoa, or chai
• As part of a holiday dessert board
• With a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for contrast

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Layer with parchment in a freezer-safe container.

General Information

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These cookies are wonderful for bake sales, holidays, or weekday sweet cravings. They’re simple yet elegant—perfect for gifting or impressing guests.

FAQ

Can I use salted butter?
Yes, just omit the added salt in the recipe.

Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?
Sure! Just fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts before chilling the dough.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Conclusion

These truly are the world’s best butter cookies. They’re rich, buttery, and practically foolproof—perfect for novice and seasoned bakers alike. Give them a try and let me know what you think in the comments below!

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