Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture in three additions, mixing on low speed until just combined.
Pro Tip: Overmixing after adding the flour can develop gluten and make your cookies tough. Stop mixing as soon as the dough comes together.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
There are several ways to shape butter cookies:
- Drop Cookies: Use a cookie scoop to drop 1.5-inch rounds onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon.
- Rolled and Cut Cookies: Roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness and cut with cookie cutters.
- Piped Cookies: Fit a piping bag with a star tip and pipe the dough into desired shapes for a classic butter cookie look.
Optional: Sprinkle a little granulated sugar or colored sugar on top for extra sparkle.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look soft, but they will firm up as they cool.
Tip: Rotate your baking sheet halfway through to ensure even browning.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents breakage and helps them set perfectly.
Step 8: Enjoy or Store
Once cooled, these butter cookies are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or freeze them for longer storage. Their buttery aroma intensifies over time, making them taste even better the next day.
Extra Tips for the Perfect Butter Cookie
- Use real butter: Margarine or blends won’t give the same richness or flavor.
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensures smooth mixing and even texture.
- Chill the dough (optional): For piped or cut-out cookies, chilling for 30 minutes prevents spreading in the oven.
- Experiment with flavors: Add lemon zest, almond extract, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a unique twist.
These cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a small bite of happiness that melts in your mouth with every bite. Once you make these, they’ll quickly become a go-to recipe for family gatherings, holidays, or simply treating yourself.
If you want, I can also make a visual step-by-step guide with images for each step, so it’s even easier to follow and perfect the cookies every time.
Do you want me to make that visual guide?
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