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Classic Melt-in-Your-Mouth Butter Cookies

A warm, close-up stack of freshly baked butter cookie treats coated in sparkling sugar.

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Make rich, buttery cookies that melt in your mouth using basic ingredients. This simple recipe is perfect for everyday baking or holiday gifts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined into a soft dough. Do not overmix.
  5. Shape the dough into logs or balls, or place it into a cookie press fitted with your desired shape.
  6. Wrap the dough logs tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  8. Slice chilled dough logs into 1/4-inch thick rounds, or press dough onto the prepared sheets.
  9. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
  10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For a Danish variation, chill the dough for 1 hour and use a cookie press to create traditional shapes.
  • You can add 1/4 teaspoon almond extract with the vanilla for a different flavor profile.
  • Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

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