vanilla butter cookies

Vanilla Butter Cookies: A Simple Recipe Guide

Vanilla butter cookies are a timeless treat, loved for their buttery richness and delicate crumb. Here’s a straightforward guide to baking these classics at home.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened

- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar

- ½ cup (120g) powdered sugar

- 1 large egg

- 2 tsp vanilla extract

- 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour

- ½ tsp salt

- Optional: 1 tbsp milk for creamier dough

Instructions:

1. Cream Butter & Sugars: In a bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy (3-4 minutes).

2. Add Egg & Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing.

4. Chill Dough: Refrigerate for 30 minutes (or up to 1 hour) to firm up.

5. Shape & Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough into 1-inch balls, place on a baking sheet, and flatten slightly. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges turn golden.

6. Cool: Let cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Tips: For extra flavor, add chocolate chips, nuts, or citrus zest. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Enjoy these melt-in-your-mouth cookies with tea or as a sweet snack!