Best Butter Cookies — rich, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious!

Ingredients

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (90g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp salt
• Optional: coarse sugar or sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes using a hand or stand mixer).
3. Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together. The dough will be soft but not sticky.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts and roll into balls, or use a cookie press or piping bag for decorative shapes. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
6. Optional: Sprinkle tops with coarse sugar or gently press with a fork for a classic pattern.
7. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are just barely golden. Do not overbake.
8. Let cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

🍪 Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week — if they last that long!

Would you like a variation, like chocolate-dipped or almond-flavored butter cookies?