8 oz (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 tsp fine salt
1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 large egg yolk
2 cups all-purpose flour (measured correctly, spooned & leveled)
Optional for lovers of variety:
Turbinado sugar for topping
Melted chocolate for dipping
Lemon zest or almond extract for flavor twists
Decorative sprinkles or jam for centers
🍪 Instructions
🥄 Step 1: Creaming the Butter & Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the butter until it’s light and fluffy. Gradually add the sugar and salt, and continue beating until the mixture is creamy and pale (about 3–4 minutes).
🧁 Step 2: Add Egg Yolk & Vanilla
Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until completely incorporated. This enhances the richness and gives a tender crumb.
🌾 Step 3: Add the Flour
Sift the flour into the wet mixture in two additions, mixing just until the dough starts to come together. Do not overmix – you’re building the delicate, crumbly texture here.
❄️ Step 4: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap, form it into a disc, and chill for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight). Chilling firms up the butter, preventing spread and enhancing flavor.
🍥 Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
You have several shaping options:
Roll and Slice: Roll dough into a log, slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
Cookie Press or Piping Bag: Pipe into rosettes or stars.
Cut-Out: Roll dough 1/4 inch thick and cut into shapes with cookie cutters.
Sprinkle with sugar, press with a fork for a rustic look, or add a thumbprint of jam in the center.
🔥 Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden. Do not overbake – these cookies should remain light in color with slight browning at the edges.
❄️ Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
💌 For the Lovers of These Cookies
To all the cookie lovers, grandmas who’ve passed down the tradition, newlyweds baking together, children sneaking them before dinner, and anyone who feels joy from a simple sweet bite — these cookies are for you.
They represent more than ingredients. They represent moments, memories, and magic. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, sharing with a friend, or enjoying a quiet night in, these
cookies bring comfort in every crumb.
🧠 Tips & Variations (Methods of Love)
For a crunchier
cookie: Bake 2–3 minutes longer until more golden.
For a flavor twist: Add 1/2 tsp almond extract or lemon zest.
For sandwich cookies: Add jam or chocolate ganache between two cookies.
For extra meltiness: Use powdered sugar instead of granulated (adjust moisture accordingly).
📦 Storage
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Freeze dough logs for up to 3 months. Slice and bake directly from frozen.
🌈 Conclusion
The World’s Best Butter Cookies aren’t just delicious – they’re emotional comfort wrapped in golden-baked goodness. Easy to make yet elegant, humble yet luxurious. They are perfect for gifting, celebrations, or your own moment of sweet self-care.
So, preheat your oven, pull out your butter, and let these cookies melt not only in your mouth – but also in your heart. 💛
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