If you're looking for a classic treat that's as simple as it is satisfying, these Traditional Butter Cookies are your answer. With just a handful of pantry staples, you'll create a cookie that's perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family gathering or a cozy afternoon at home.
The star of this recipe is, without a doubt, the butter. Using unsalted butter gives you full control over the flavor, allowing the natural creaminess to shine. The granulated sugar provides just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the buttery goodness. Eggs act as a binder, bringing the dough together and offering a hint of richness. A splash of vanilla extract adds warmth and depth, enhancing the overall flavor. For the structure, we use all-purpose flour, which is versatile enough to yield a tender yet sturdy cookie. The baking powder gives a slight rise, ensuring the cookies aren't too dense. Lastly, a pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and easy cleanup. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. You're aiming for a light and fluffy texture, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. Once you've got that beautiful creamy mixture, beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is fully incorporated; you don't want streaks of egg in your dough.
Next, get a separate bowl and whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This dry mix will be added gradually to the wet ingredients. It's best to do this in batches, mixing until just combined each time to avoid overworking the dough. You'll know the dough is ready when it starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl and is soft to the touch.
Now, it's time to shape the cookies! Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on your prepared baking sheet, keeping them about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows them to spread slightly without sticking together. Take a fork, dip it in some flour to prevent sticking, and gently flatten each ball. This gives the cookies a lovely, homemade look.
Bake the cookies for about 10-12 minutes, or until you see the edges turning a light golden color. They'll continue to firm up as they cool, so don't worry if they seem a bit soft when you first take them out of the oven. Let them sit on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a cup of your favorite tea. Try serving them alongside fresh fruit for a light, balanced dessert. They also make a charming addition to any cookie platter, especially during the holiday season.
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