Name: Classic Butter Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened; ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour; ¼ teaspoon salt

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Classic Butter Cookies are one of my favorite homemade treats because they are simple, rich, and incredibly comforting. I love how the edges bake up lightly crisp while the center stays tender and buttery. These cookies are perfect for afternoon tea, holiday cookie trays, gifting, or keeping in a cookie jar for everyday snacking.

Classic Butter Cookies

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened

¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour

¼ teaspoon salt

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, I cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.

I beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and fully combined.

I add the flour and salt, then gently mix until a soft cookie dough forms.

I scoop or pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between each cookie.

I bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.

I let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Servings: 24 cookies

Calories: Approximately 120 kcal per cookie

Variations

I sometimes add almond extract along with the vanilla for a richer flavor. When I want a festive version, I dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate or sprinkle colored sugar on top before baking. I also enjoy adding lemon zest for a brighter citrus flavor. For extra texture, I occasionally mix finely chopped nuts into the dough.

Storage/Reheating

I store these butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If I want to keep them longer, I freeze them in a sealed container for up to 2 months. To refresh the cookies, I warm them in a 300°F oven for a few minutes so they regain their crisp edges and buttery aroma.

FAQs

Why did my butter cookies spread too much?

I notice cookies spread too much when the butter is overly soft or melted. I like to chill the dough for about 15 to 20 minutes if the kitchen is warm.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until I am ready to bake.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

I freeze portions of the dough on a tray first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. The dough keeps well for up to 2 months.

How do I make the cookies extra crisp?

I bake the cookies for an extra minute or two until the edges deepen slightly in color. I also let them cool completely before storing.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

I can use salted butter if needed, but I usually reduce or skip the added salt in the recipe to keep the flavor balanced.

Conclusion

Classic Butter Cookies are one of those timeless recipes I return to again and again because they are easy, reliable, and wonderfully delicious. I love serving them with coffee or tea, packaging them as gifts, or enjoying them fresh from the cooling rack. Their rich buttery flavor and delicate texture make them a perfect homemade dessert for any occasion.

📖 Recipe:

Classic Butter Cookies

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These classic butter cookies are rich, tender, and perfectly buttery with lightly crisp edges and a soft center. They are simple to make and perfect for tea time, holidays, or everyday snacking.