World’s Best Butter Cookies Recipe
Introduction
These World’s Best Butter Cookies are rich, tender, and perfectly buttery, making them a timeless treat for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create classic cookies that melt in your mouth and delight everyone who tries them.
Ingredients
- 8 oz unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Step 2: Add the egg yolk and continue mixing until fully combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Step 3: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Step 4: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently a few times until smooth. Shape into a log, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or freeze for later use.
- Step 5: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 6: Slice the chilled dough into ⅛-inch thick rounds. Arrange the cookies about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Step 7: Bake for 16 to 18 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden.
- Step 8: Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving or storing.
Tips & Variations
- Use high-quality European butter for the best flavor and texture.
- For a festive touch, dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate or sprinkle with colored sugar before baking.
- To add a twist, gently fold in finely chopped nuts or citrus zest before chilling the dough.
- Avoid overbaking; cookies will firm up as they cool, keeping them tender and crisp.
Storage
Store butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months; just thaw at room temperature before enjoying. To refresh, warm briefly in the oven or microwave.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
You can use salted butter, but reduce or omit the added salt to prevent the cookies from being too salty.
Why should I chill the dough before baking?
Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to slice and helping the cookies keep their shape during baking for a tender, even texture.
PrintWorld’s Best Butter Cookies Recipe
These World’s Best Butter Cookies are a classic, buttery treat featuring a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicate vanilla flavor. They are easy to prepare with simple ingredients, making them perfect for holiday cookie platters, gift tins, or everyday indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 16-18 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 8 oz unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Prepare the butter mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla extract using an electric mixer or hand whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add egg yolk: Mix in the egg yolk thoroughly until fully combined, scraping down the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
- Incorporate flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture, folding it in gently until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
- Knead and chill dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently a few times until smooth. Shape the dough into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or freeze for later use.
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheets: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking during baking.
- Slice dough: Remove chilled dough from the refrigerator and slice it into ⅛-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife. Arrange the cookie slices about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 16 to 18 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies begin to turn golden. Be careful not to overbake to preserve their tender texture.
- Cool: Transfer the baked cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- For best flavor, use high-quality European butter.
- The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking.
- These cookies are perfect for Christmas cookie platters, holiday gift tins, or everyday treats.
Keywords: butter cookies, classic cookies, holiday cookies, Christmas cookies, vanilla cookies, homemade cookies
