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Classic Melt-in-Your-Mouth Butter Cookies

A stack of golden brown, ridged butter cookie treats sprinkled with sugar, resting on a light plate.

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Make these classic butter cookies for a rich, buttery flavor and a tender texture that truly melts in your mouth. This simple recipe delivers homemade cookie perfection perfect for teatime or gifting.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until just combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
  4. Shape the dough into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
  5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  6. Remove the dough from the refrigerator. You can either roll the dough out and cut shapes or press the dough into a cookie press fitted with your desired tip for classic swirls.
  7. Place the cookies about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
  8. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. For a crisp edge, bake closer to 12 minutes.
  9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For the best melt-in-your-mouth texture, ensure your butter is properly softened but not melted.
  • If you prefer a more pronounced vanilla flavor, use 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
  • These cookies are excellent dipped halfway in melted chocolate for an added treat.
  • Chill the dough thoroughly; this prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

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