World's Best Butter Cookies
I tested 8 different butter cookie recipes, looking for the perfect butter cookie. It had to be buttery, a little crumbly (like shortbread), and not too sweet. This is the winner. I think these are the Worlds Best Butter Cookies, courtesy of Chef Alice Medrich.
I tested 8 different butter cookie recipes, looking for the perfect butter cookie. It had to be buttery, a little crumbly (like shortbread), and not too sweet. This is the winner. I think these are the Worlds Best Butter Cookies, courtesy of Chef Alice Medrich.
- Carbohydrate 3.9756277002911 g
- Cholesterol 15.9305582775 mg
- Fat 4.50877492349382 g
- Fiber 0.140717016551599 g
- Protein 0.667346564631342 g
- Saturated Fat 2.779110599831 g
- Serving Size 1 1 cookie (13g)
- Sodium 69.0037899522269 mg
- Sugar 3.8349106837395 g
- Trans Fat 0.351099999110347 g
- Calories 59 calories
Step-by-step
- Beat the butter, sugar, salt and vanilla together until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in the egg yolk until well incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl at least once.
- Add the flour and mix just until incorporated.
- Scrape onto a lightly floured board and knead a few times, just until the dough smooths out.
- Turn onto a sheet of plastic wrap and roll into a log, wrap up and refrigerate for several hours or freeze.
- Before baking, preheat the oven to 325degreesF.
- Line your baking sheets with parchment.
- Slice the dough into slices about 1/8" thick and place them on the sheets about an inch apart (they won't be spreading very much, but they need air room around each cookie).
- Bake until JUST beginning to turn golden around the edges, about 16-18 minutes.
- Note: you can do many things with these cookies. You could roll the dough out and cut shapes. You could slice them even thinner and sandwich them with chocolate or jam or lemon curd. You could make them and then dip them half into chocolate. You could just make them and eat them, which is my favorite. Whatever you do, they will be delicious.
World's Best Butter Cookies: A Simple Recipe for Perfect Bites
As a busy working mom, finding time for baking is a luxury. But sometimes, the craving for a homemade treat hits hard. These butter cookies are my go-to – they're quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious. Forget complicated recipes and fussy techniques; this recipe delivers that melt-in-your-mouth perfection that everyone loves, without the fuss. I've adapted it from a recipe I found, tweaking it over time to fit my busy schedule and my family's preferences. The result is a cookie that's buttery, slightly crumbly, and not overly sweet – the perfect balance of rich flavor and delicate texture.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are basic, the process is straightforward, and the results are extraordinary. Even on a rushed weeknight, I can whip up a batch of these cookies in under an hour, including chilling time. The dough comes together quickly, and the baking time is minimal. And the best part? These cookies keep well, allowing you to enjoy them over several days. I often double the recipe, making enough for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, and of course, a little treat for myself!
Beyond the Basics: Endless Customization Options
While the recipe itself is simple, the possibilities for customization are endless. I've experimented with various additions and variations, and the results have always been delightful. Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt to the tops of the cookies before baking for a touch of salty sweetness. Roll the dough out thinly and use cookie cutters to create fun shapes for holidays or special occasions. Or, slice the cookies extra-thin and sandwich them together with your favorite jam or chocolate ganache for an elegant treat.
Storage Tips for Maximum Enjoyment:
To keep your cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay wonderfully soft and flavorful for several days. If you prefer, you can freeze the unbaked cookie dough for future baking, extending their enjoyment even further. Simply wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, thaw the dough overnight in the refrigerator and continue with the recipe as directed.
The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion:
Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering, packing lunches for school, or simply need a sweet pick-me-up, these butter cookies are a perfect choice. Their delicate texture and rich flavor are sure to please even the most discerning palates. The recipe's simplicity makes it ideal for beginner bakers, while its versatility offers endless possibilities for creativity and customization. So go ahead, give these cookies a try and experience the joy of making a simple yet truly special treat.
A Note on Ingredients:
Using good-quality ingredients makes all the difference in baking. I highly recommend using unsalted butter for better flavor control. And don't be tempted to substitute the vanilla extract – it's key to the cookie's overall flavor profile. Finally, measure your flour accurately. Too much flour can result in dry, crumbly cookies.
Making Memories with Every Bite:
These butter cookies are more than just a recipe; they're a tradition. They're a small act of love, a delicious way to connect with family and friends, and a reminder that even the simplest things in life can bring the greatest joy. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do, and that they become a cherished part of your baking repertoire.
