Crispy Butter Cookies are a timeless classic, loved for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and buttery flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, these cookies are incredibly easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or shared as a homemade gift, they’re always a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples.
- Easy to Make: Requires minimal effort and no special equipment.
- Perfectly Crispy: Thin, crisp edges with a delicate crunch.
- Versatile: Can be flavored or decorated to suit your taste.
- Great for Gifting: These cookies stay fresh for days, making them an excellent choice for sharing.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter (softened)
- Granulated sugar
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
- Baking powder (optional, for a slight lift)
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder (if using).
- Mix the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop small portions of dough and roll them into balls. Flatten them slightly with your palm or a fork.
- Bake: Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Variations
- Flavor Enhancements: Add almond extract, lemon zest, or a pinch of cinnamon for a unique twist.
- Decorations: Sprinkle with coarse sugar, dip in chocolate, or top with chopped nuts.
- Whole-Grain Version: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Sugar Substitutes: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar-free sweetener.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze the baked cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: To restore crispiness, warm the cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3–5 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty cookies.
2. Why are my cookies too soft?
Ensure the dough is not over-mixed, and bake until the edges are golden for a crisp texture.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.
4. What’s the best way to shape these cookies?
Use a cookie scoop for uniform size or roll the dough into balls for a classic look.
5. Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes, though this will make the cookies softer. For crispiness, keep the add-ins minimal.
6. How can I make them extra crispy?
Roll the dough thinner and bake a little longer, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
7. Do I need to chill the dough?
It’s not necessary, but chilling helps prevent spreading if your kitchen is warm.
8. Can I make these cookies without a mixer?
Yes, a whisk and spatula work well; just ensure the butter is soft enough to cream by hand.
9. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Use room-temperature ingredients and avoid over-softening the butter.
10. What if I don’t have parchment paper?
Grease the baking sheet lightly with butter or use a silicone baking mat.
Conclusion
Crispy Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that’s as easy to make as they are to enjoy. Their rich, buttery flavor and satisfying crunch make them a favorite for any occasion. With endless variations and easy storage, they’re a must-have recipe for your collection. Serve them with coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk for the perfect snack!
Print
Crispy Butter Cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American,
Description
Enjoy these irresistible Crispy Butter Cookies, with their perfect blend of buttery richness and delicate crunch. Made with simple ingredients and baked to golden perfection, these cookies are ideal for tea-time or gifting.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for sprinkling)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
- Use a fork to gently press down each cookie, creating a ridged pattern.
- Bake:
- Sprinkle the tops of the cookies with extra sugar for a crispy finish.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a flavored twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- These cookies pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *