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Basic Butter Cookies

Deliciously rich and buttery cookies with crisp edges and tender centers, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
  • 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter and granulated sugar together until creamy and well combined.
  2. Mix in the salt and pure vanilla extract. Add the egg yolk to the mixture, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
  3. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing just until incorporated. Avoid over-mixing to keep cookies tender.
  4. Divide the dough into two equal halves, shape into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.
  5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  6. Roll out one piece of dough between parchment paper to 1/8 inch thick and cut into desired shapes.
  7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheets, spaced 1 inch apart, and sprinkle with turbinado sugar.
  8. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until edges are golden brown.
  9. Cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to one week or freeze for up to three months.

Nutrition

Keywords: butter cookies, easy cookies, baking, desserts, sweet treats