I’ve always had a soft spot for simple treats that melt in your mouth, and these Butter Cookies have become my go-to recipe for a quick, satisfying indulgence. The idea sparked one lazy afternoon when I craved something buttery and sweet—the flour and unsalted butter were my creative spark. They’re my little bites of joy, perfect for any day I need a touch of comfort and flavor.
My inspiration came from a longing to recreate those classic cookies I’d snag from the bakery as a kid, but with a homemade twist that warms my heart. I wanted a recipe that’s easy to whip up, with a texture that’s tender yet crisp—the vanilla extract and egg wash became my magic touch. This recipe blends simplicity with delight, and I’m hooked every time I make them.
The first time I pulled these cookies from the oven, their golden edges and buttery aroma won me over instantly, like a cozy hug from my kitchen. For me, these butter cookies are a way to enjoy a sweet moment with ingredients I adore. I’m thrilled to share why they’ve captured my heart!
Whether it’s for a quiet tea time, a snack with friends, or just a treat for myself, these cookies are my ideal pick. I hope you fall for them as hard as I have and make them a staple in your home. Let’s dive into this buttery bliss!
Nostalgic Appeal
These butter cookies take me straight back to my childhood, when my mom would bake treats on weekends, filling the house with that warm, buttery scent. I remember sneaking dough from the bowl, and this recipe brings those days back with every bite. It’s like a whisper of those times, but with my own spin on it.
There’s something about the butter that reminds me of spreading it on fresh bread at Grandma’s, laughing as it dripped down my chin—a simple joy that still makes me grin. The sugar in the mix pulls me back to those moments we’d sprinkle it over everything, giggling at the mess. It’s pure nostalgia, baked into every crumb.
When I make them now, I feel like I’m carrying a piece of those memories into today. Mixing the dough and pressing the fork into them connects me to those lazy afternoons of chatter and baked goods. Each cookie holds that childhood warmth I treasure, but with a grown-up twist.
For me, these butter cookies bridge yesterday and today, blending what I loved as a kid with what I savor now. They bring back that thrill of fresh-from-the-oven goodies, but with a recipe I’ve made my own. If a cookie from your past ever made you happy, these might just tug at your heartstrings.
Homemade Focus
I’m a huge fan of homemade goodies, and these butter cookies let me shine effortlessly in my kitchen. There’s nothing like popping a tray of golden cookies out of the oven and knowing I crafted them from scratch. This recipe is so straightforward it feels like play, yet the outcome is pure delight from my home.
What I love most is starting with flour and butter—basic staples—and turning them into something special with just a mixer and a bit of love. The vanilla extract is my personal flair, making each batch distinctly mine. It’s homemade at its core: simple, heartfelt, and full of care.
Beating the butter and rolling the dough make me feel like a creative baker, no fancy skills needed. I don’t require complex techniques—just a bowl, a mixer, and my enthusiasm—and that’s what makes it so wonderful. It’s all up to me, from the first whisk to the final bake.
These cookies prove homemade doesn’t have to be hard—it’s tender, tasty, and straight from my heart. They’re my way of filling my home with warmth and joy, for myself or those I care about. Every time I bake them, I feel that pride only homemade can bring.
Flavor Goal
When I dreamed up these butter cookies, I wanted a texture that’s soft yet crisp, with a flavor that balances rich butter and subtle sweetness. The all-purpose flour was my bet for that tender crumb, while the unsalted butter promised a taste that makes me sigh. My goal was a cookie that’s simple but unforgettable, perfect for any palate.
I didn’t want anything heavy, just a harmony of creamy and sweet notes. The egg and vanilla extract create that depth I crave, while the sugar adds a lift that excites me. It’s a mix that keeps me coming back, never overwhelming.
To me, the flavor lies in that pure butteriness—sweet but light—that hits the spot every time. The egg wash is my favorite trick, giving a golden crunch that elevates each bite. I aimed for a treat that’s rich and delightful, and I think I nailed it.
These butter cookies are my cozy haven, a balance of flavor and texture that cheers my taste buds. They’re perfect when I want something special without fuss. If you love buttery, sweet bites, these might just steal your heart too.
Ingredient Details (Without Measurements)
Let me tell you about the ingredients that bring these butter cookies to life—they’re the soul of this recipe. The all-purpose flour is my foundation, soft and versatile, giving that tender base I adore. I love how it holds everything together.
Then there’s the kosher salt, subtle but key, balancing the sweetness just right. The unsalted butter is my star, rich and creamy, melting into every bite like a dream. The granulated sugar is my sweetness, fine and crisp, adding that perfect lift.
The egg is my binder, fresh and vital, tying it all with a gentle richness. The extra yolk for brushing is my shine, golden and glossy, making them pop. The vanilla or almond extract is my aroma, warm and optional, lifting each cookie to bliss.
Every ingredient matters, crafting a cookie that delights me with every nibble. I tweak the extract choice to suit my mood. This list is my ticket to buttery heaven without the hassle!
Essential Equipment
I don’t need much to make these butter cookies, and that’s part of their charm for me. Two large baking sheets are my canvas—where the cookies take shape with love. They’re simple but do the job perfectly.
A hand mixer beats the butter and sugar—no fuss, just what I’ve got handy. I use a medium bowl for mixing—basic but crucial for the dough. A whisk blends the dry stuff—nothing fancy, just practical.
My oven at 375°F is the hero—baking them to golden perfection without rush. Parchment paper lines the trays—a simple trick I love. That’s it—my kitchen has all I need.
These tools are what I already own, and with them, I’m set to start. No complicated gear required, just the essentials. It proves great cookies come from the heart, not gadgets.
Ingredient List with Measurements
Here’s what I use to make these Butter Cookies, clear and simple. This list is my guide for 43 servings of pure delight, with easy-to-find items. Let’s get baking!
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, plus 1 large egg yolk for brushing
- 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract or almond extract (optional)
These amounts give me 43 perfect cookies—buttery and crisp. The 2 ½ cups of flour and 1 cup of butter are my ideal combo. It’s a short list but mighty.
The measures are spot-on for the texture I crave, with room to tweak. I can halve it for fewer—adapts like a charm. This is my key to cookie bliss!
Step-by-Step
I kick off by preheating the oven to 375°F—lining two baking sheets with parchment gets me ready. In a medium bowl, I whisk 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour and 1 tsp. kosher salt—my dry mix is set. It’s quick, and I’m already excited.
In another bowl, I beat 1 cup unsalted butter and ⅔ cup granulated sugar with a hand mixer—4 to 5 minutes until it’s light and fluffy, my favorite creamy moment. I add 1 large egg and 1 tsp. vanilla extract if I’m using it—beat until smooth, then slowly mix in the flour blend, my dough comes together. I split it in half—easy to handle now.
I beat 1 egg yolk with 2 teaspoons water in a small bowl—my golden wash is ready. On a floured surface, I roll each half to ¼” thick, punch out 2″ rounds with a cutter, and place them 1″ apart on the sheets—press a fork for that crosshatch look and brush with the yolk mix, my cookies shine. I bake 10-12 minutes—golden edges mean they’re done, cooling brings pure joy.
Each batch is a treat that makes me smile—simple steps, big reward. This process fills me with pride every time. They’re ready to savor!

Troubleshooting
Sometimes things go off track, but I’ve got fixes for these butter cookies. If they’re dry, I skimped on butter—1 cup exact next time. Too crumbly? More egg—1 whole one does it.
If they don’t crisp, I overmixed—gentle blending is key. Too bland? More salt—1 tsp. kosher hits the spot.
When they stick, I forgot parchment—lining sheets saves me. If they’re pale, I baked too short—12 minutes maxes the gold. These tweaks keep them perfect.
It’s trial and error, and I’ve learned to tweak them my way. A test cookie tells me if I’m on track. I get better each time, and I love it.
Tips and Variations
I’ve found tricks to make these butter cookies even better, and I’m excited to share them. For extra crunch, I sprinkle sugar before baking—pure bliss. A pinch of cinnamon adds warmth I adore.
If I want variety, I swap almond extract for vanilla—nutty and different. Mixing in lemon zest brings a zing I love. Or I add chocolate chips—rich and fun.
For looks, I press in sprinkles—cute and festive. A dusting of powdered sugar wows the crowd. Each tweak makes them special.
My best tip is cold butter—keeps them tender. I play with these ideas based on my mood, and they always work. They’re my cookies, my way!
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
I serve these butter cookies warm or cool, on a plate—crisp and inviting. They’re great with a butter smear, showing off their richness. For a twist, I pair them with jam—simple yet fancy.
They match perfectly with black tea—sweetness and tea blend beautifully. A latte works too, boosting each bite. For fun, I serve with milk—pure comfort.
If I’m showing off, I add whipped cream—lifts every nibble. They’ve been a hit with hot cocoa—double joy that delights. They fit any moment I choose.
I love bringing them to brunches—easy and always a hit. Warm is best, but cool stays tasty if stored right. They’re my buttery gift to share or savor alone!
Nutritional Information
I’m no expert, but I can guess what’s in these butter cookies from their ingredients. One cookie—out of 43—might have 80 calories, with butter and sugar adding up. It’s a treat, so I don’t sweat the numbers.
Fat’s from the butter, carbs from flour and sugar—protein’s low, thanks to the egg. Salt’s light, and extract barely counts. They’re a sweet indulgence, not a light snack.
These are my special bites, not an everyday thing—I enjoy without overthinking. Lighter? Less butter next time—cuts the fat. For me, joy outweighs calories.
They’re my buttery escape, savored guilt-free in small doses. One or two with tea keeps it balanced and happy. Worth every bite, trust me!
PrintButter Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, plus 1 large egg yolk for brushing
- 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract or almond extract (optional)
These amounts give me 43 perfect cookies—buttery and crisp. The 2 ½ cups of flour and 1 cup of butter are my ideal combo. It’s a short list but mighty.
The measures are spot-on for the texture I crave, with room to tweak. I can halve it for fewer—adapts like a charm. This is my key to cookie bliss!
Instructions
I kick off by preheating the oven to 375°F—lining two baking sheets with parchment gets me ready. In a medium bowl, I whisk 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour and 1 tsp. kosher salt—my dry mix is set. It’s quick, and I’m already excited.
In another bowl, I beat 1 cup unsalted butter and ⅔ cup granulated sugar with a hand mixer—4 to 5 minutes until it’s light and fluffy, my favorite creamy moment. I add 1 large egg and 1 tsp. vanilla extract if I’m using it—beat until smooth, then slowly mix in the flour blend, my dough comes together. I split it in half—easy to handle now.
I beat 1 egg yolk with 2 teaspoons water in a small bowl—my golden wash is ready. On a floured surface, I roll each half to ¼” thick, punch out 2″ rounds with a cutter, and place them 1″ apart on the sheets—press a fork for that crosshatch look and brush with the yolk mix, my cookies shine. I bake 10-12 minutes—golden edges mean they’re done, cooling brings pure joy.
Each batch is a treat that makes me smile—simple steps, big reward. This process fills me with pride every time. They’re ready to savor!
Recipe Recap and FAQs
These Butter Cookies are my quick route to buttery bliss. I mix flour and butter, shape, bake—ready to shine. They’re easy, tasty, and always a win.
I’m asked, “Can I use salted butter?” Yes, skip the salt—works fine. “Crispier how?” More bake time—my trick.
Another question: “No vanilla?” Try lemon extract—still great. “How long do they last?” 1-2 weeks stored—gone fast at my place.
This recipe’s my buttery gem, and I hope you make it yours too. It’s simple, delicious, and full of heart—all I love in a cookie. Questions? I’m here to help!