If you’re looking for the perfect butter cookies recipe that’s crisp, buttery, and melts in your mouth, you’ve come to the right place. These homemade butter cookies are an all-time classic, perfect for holiday baking, tea-time treats, or as a simple dessert any day of the week. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can bake a batch of cookies that taste far better than store-bought varieties.

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This recipe delivers golden, lightly crisp edges and a rich, buttery flavor that pairs wonderfully with coffee, hot chocolate, or even a glass of milk. Whether you’re baking for your family, hosting a party, or preparing Christmas cookies for gifting, these butter cookies are always a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Butter cookies are beloved worldwide because of their versatility and simplicity. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

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Easy to make: Only a few ingredients and simple steps are required.
Perfect for gifting: Package them in a tin or jar for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Freezer-friendly: Make the dough ahead and bake when needed.
Customizable: Shape them into rounds, stars, or festive designs for any occasion.
Irresistible flavor: The combination of butter, sugar, and vanilla creates a rich, melt-in-your-mouth taste.

Ingredients Breakdown

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the best butter cookies:

Unsalted Butter (8 oz): The star of the recipe. High-quality butter ensures a rich flavor and tender texture. Always use softened butter for easier mixing.
Granulated Sugar (¾ cup): Provides sweetness and helps create a delicate crispness.
Salt (¼ tsp): Enhances the flavor and balances sweetness.
Pure Vanilla Extract (1 ½ tsp): Adds warmth and depth of flavor. Using real vanilla makes a noticeable difference.
Egg Yolk (1 large): Contributes richness and helps bind the dough together.
All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): Forms the structure of the cookies while keeping them light.

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Tips and Tricks

Use room temperature butter: This ensures smooth mixing and even texture.
Chill the dough: Refrigeration helps the dough firm up, making slicing easier and preventing cookies from spreading.
Sharp knife for slicing: A thin, sharp knife gives clean, even cookie rounds.
Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies; mix until just combined.
Monitor baking closely: The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but not browned all over.

Variations and Customizations

Butter cookies are a blank canvas for creativity. Try these ideas:

Chocolate-Dipped Butter Cookies: Dip half of each cooled cookie in melted dark or white chocolate.
Sprinkle Topping: Add colorful sprinkles or sanding sugar before baking for a festive look.
Citrus Zest: Mix in lemon, orange, or lime zest for a refreshing twist.
Spiced Butter Cookies: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a cozy flavor.
Nutty Butter Cookies: Fold in finely chopped almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts.

Pairing Suggestions

Butter cookies are delicious on their own, but they also pair beautifully with:

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Hot beverages like coffee, cappuccino, or chai tea.
Holiday drinks such as hot cocoa or mulled cider.
Light desserts like fruit salad or vanilla pudding.
Cheese boards for a sweet and savory balance.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
Freezer (Dough): Wrap dough tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Slice and bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to bake time.
Freezer (Baked Cookies): Store baked cookies in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.