The Best Classic Butter Cookie Recipe
The best classic butter cookie recipe is a staple in many kitchens, ready to bring warmth and nostalgia. These simple yet delicious cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering, a tea party, or just a treat for yourself. Let’s dive into the steps that will help you create these melt-in-your-mouth cookies!
Ingredients Needed
To make the best classic butter cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: Sprinkles or chocolate chips for decoration
Instructions
Follow these steps for a delicious batch of butter cookies:
1. Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy. This process should take about 3-5 minutes. Don’t rush, as this is crucial for achieving a nice texture.
3. Add Vanilla and Mix Well
Once the butter and sugar are creamed, add the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated. The sweet scent will start to fill your kitchen!
4. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a smooth dough that holds together.
5. Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form small balls of dough, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space for the cookies to spread while baking. If desired, you can gently flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass and add sprinkles or chocolate chips on top.
6. Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking; they should feel slightly soft but will harden as they cool.
7. Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Now comes the best part—enjoying your freshly baked classic butter cookies!
Storage Tips
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze the dough for later use; roll it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop the frozen dough onto a baking sheet and add a couple of minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
This classic butter cookie recipe is a delightful treat that will be loved by everyone. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a batch that’s perfect for any occasion. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy baking these delicious cookies!