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World’s Best Butter Cookies Recipe

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4.5 from 104 reviews

Delight in the classic richness of the World’s Best Butter Cookies, featuring a perfect balance of buttery flavor, crisp edges, and tender centers. These cookies are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether paired with tea or enjoyed as a sweet treat any time of day.

Ingredients

Cookie Dough 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

  1. Prepare the Butter: Ensure the unsalted butter is softened to room temperature. This will ensure easy creaming with sugar for a smooth dough texture.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This may take about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
  3. Add Egg Yolk and Vanilla: Mix in the egg yolk, salt, and pure vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The egg yolk adds richness and helps bind the dough.
  4. Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour into the wet mixture. Stir gently or use a mixer on low speed until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.
  5. Shape the Cookies: Using your hands or a cookie press, form the dough into your desired shape or use a piping bag fitted with your favorite tip to create decorative patterns on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking cookies evenly.
  7. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the edges just start to turn a light golden brown.
  8. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For extra flair, sprinkle some sugar on top of the cookies before baking for a light crunch.
  • Ensure butter is softened but not melted to keep dough consistency right.
  • Cookie dough can be chilled for 30 minutes if it’s too soft to shape easily.
  • Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
  • These cookies freeze well; thaw at room temperature before serving.