These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a cozy afternoon snack, or simply indulging in a classic dessert, these cookies deliver a rich, delicate flavor with a crisp yet tender texture. Made with simple ingredients, they embody the essence of traditional butter cookies—sweet, buttery, and irresistibly delicious. You can enjoy them plain, decorate them with sprinkles, or dip them in chocolate for an extra touch of indulgence.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
- Use an electric mixer on medium speed to ensure the mixture is well incorporated.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
Step 2: Add the Egg Yolk
- Mix in the egg yolk until fully incorporated.
- Continue beating until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
Step 3: Incorporate the Flour
- Gradually add the flour, mixing just until combined.
- Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies tough.
- The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
- Knead it a few times until it smooths out.
- Roll the dough into a log shape, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Step 5: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 6: Slice and Bake
- Remove the dough from the refrigerator and slice it into ¼-inch thick rounds.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Enjoy them plain or decorate with chocolate drizzle, powdered sugar, or sprinkles.
Variations:
- Chocolate-Dipped: Melt dark or milk chocolate and dip half of each cookie for a decadent touch.
- Nutty Delight: Add finely chopped almonds or pecans to the dough for extra crunch.
- Citrus Twist: Mix in orange or lemon zest for a refreshing flavor.
Storage Tips:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freeze the dough for up to 3 months for easy baking later.
These World’s Best Butter Cookies are simple yet elegant, making them a staple in any baker’s collection. Enjoy their rich, buttery goodness with a cup of tea or coffee! 🍪✨ You can find more details here.