1. Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is key for creating that delicate texture.
2. Add the Egg and Vanilla
- Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
- Gradually add to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
4. Shape the Cookies
- Transfer the dough into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip (for classic swirled butter cookies).
- Pipe swirls or rounds onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- For a shortcut, you can also roll the dough into small balls and flatten slightly with a fork.
5. Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake cookies for 10–12 minutes, until edges are just turning golden.
- Let cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa.
- Add to a holiday cookie box with spritz cookies, shortbread, and gingerbread.
- Sandwich two cookies with jam or Nutella for a decadent twist.
Tips & Variations
- Extra buttery: Use European-style butter for a richer flavor.
- Festive touch: Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and add sprinkles.
- Almond lovers: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract and top with sliced almonds.
- Crispier cookies: Bake for an extra 2 minutes if you prefer a crunchier bite.
Final Thoughts
This Butter Cookies Recipe is proof that the simplest ingredients can make the most delightful treats. Buttery, tender, and endlessly versatile, they’re a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Once you try them, you’ll want to bake a batch (or two) every week.