Weekend baking made easy! These cookies are my family’s favorite – so buttery and festive!

Weekend Baking Made Easy! These Cookies Are My Family’s Favorite – So Buttery and Festive!

There’s something undeniably comforting about the scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house on a lazy weekend afternoon. Whether it’s a quiet Sunday with a good book or a cheerful family gathering, baking cookies brings joy to every occasion. These particular cookies – buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats adorned with festive sprinkles – have become a cherished weekend tradition in our home. They’re simple to make, beautifully customizable, and absolutely irresistible. Let’s dive into the recipe that makes weekend baking not just easy, but also delightfully rewarding.

Why These Cookies Are a Family Favorite

What sets these cookies apart is their rich, buttery flavor and tender, crumbly texture. They strike the perfect balance between being indulgent and light. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, they’re ideal for spontaneous baking sessions. Plus, you can dress them up with colorful sprinkles, chocolate drizzle, or a dusting of powdered sugar to match any celebration – or keep them plain and classic for everyday comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
¾ cup (90g) powdered sugar
1 large egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
Festive sprinkles, sanding sugar, or melted chocolate (optional for decorating)

Step-by-Step Baking Method

Step 1: Prepare Your Tools and Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or nonstick baking mats.
Set out your mixing bowls and a hand mixer or stand mixer (you can mix by hand, but creaming butter is easier with electric help).

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter and powdered sugar.
Beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy – this usually takes 2–3 minutes.
This creaming step is essential for creating that tender, buttery texture.

Step 3: Add the Egg Yolk and Vanilla

Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture.
Mix until everything is fully incorporated.
The egg yolk enriches the dough and helps hold it together without making it too cakey.