These Timeless Butter Cookies are a classic treat that never goes out of style. Their buttery richness and simple sweetness make them perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to a cozy afternoon snack. Let’s dive into this straightforward recipe that delivers delightful results every time.
Butter: The star of the show, providing richness and a tender crumb. Make sure it's softened for easy mixing. Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps them achieve a slight crispiness. Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds a bit of moisture. All-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the cookies. Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle depth of flavor that complements the butter. Baking soda: Provides a slight lift to ensure the cookies aren't too dense. Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
These cookies are delightful on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream can turn them into a simple dessert. For a festive touch, dip half in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed nuts or sprinkles.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it's just the right temperature once you’re ready to bake. Next, in a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar. You'll want to mix until the mixture is light and fluffy — this usually takes a few minutes with an electric mixer. Once that's ready, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This dry mix will be incorporated into the wet mixture, so gradual addition is key. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so keep it gentle.
Now, it's time to roll the dough into small balls. A tablespoon-sized ball works well here. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Gently flatten each ball with a fork, creating a crisscross pattern. This step is not only decorative but also helps the cookies bake evenly.
Pop the cookies into the oven for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye out for edges that are lightly golden, indicating they’re done. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to set before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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