These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are perfect for any occasion, especially during the festive season. Their rich flavor and tender texture make them a beloved treat for both young and old. Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions to create these delightful cookies!
Ingredients
8 oz unsalted butter: Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. If you forget to take it out ahead of time, you can cut it into small cubes to soften it more quickly.
3/4 cup granulated sugar: This will give the cookies just the right amount of sweetness without being overpowering.
1/4 tsp salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavor of the cookies and balances the sweetness.
1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract: Use high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor. Vanilla bean paste can also be used for a richer taste and visible specks.
1 large egg yolk: The yolk adds richness and moisture to the dough, contributing to the cookies’ tender texture.
2 cups all-purpose flour: Be sure to measure the flour correctly; spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid dense cookies.
Instructions
Prepare Your Workspace: Before you start, gather all your ingredients and tools. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) so it’s ready when your cookies are shaped and ready to bake.
Creaming the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Using an electric mixer or a wooden spoon, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. This process incorporates air into the butter, resulting in lighter cookies.
Incorporate the Egg Yolk and Vanilla: Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until fully incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl with a spatula as needed to ensure everything is well combined.
Adding the Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture. Mix on low speed or gently fold with a spatula until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
Kneading the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Gently knead the dough a few times until it becomes smooth and homogenous. This step helps to bring the dough together without overworking it.
Shaping the Dough: Shape the dough into a log, approximately 2 inches in diameter. Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and makes the dough easier to slice. If you prefer, you can freeze the log for later use—just ensure it’s wrapped securely.
Preparing to Bake: Once the dough has chilled, line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This also makes cleanup easier.
Slicing the Cookies: Remove the dough from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into rounds about 1/8-inch thick. Place the slices on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about an inch apart to allow for spreading.
Baking the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 16-18 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.
Cooling and Serving: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle.
Enjoying Your Cookies
These butter cookies are delightful on their own, but feel free to get creative! You can drizzle them with melted chocolate, sprinkle them with powdered sugar, or even add some colorful sprinkles for festive occasions. Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they can last for up to a week.
