Introduction
These butter cookies are rich, tender, and melt in your mouth while maintaining a slightly crisp edge. Perfect for dipping into coffee or tea, they are simple to make and absolutely delicious.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 250g unsalted butter, softened
- 150g powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 300g all-purpose flour
- 30ml milk
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 25 cookies
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 175°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add the vanilla extract and salt, mixing until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough just comes together. If the dough is too dry, add the milk to achieve a smooth consistency.
5. Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe small swirls or circles onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
7. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Store in an airtight container and enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 175°C. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar. Beat them together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add Flavor Elements
Pour in the vanilla extract and sprinkle in the salt. Continue to mix until the ingredients are well integrated.
4. Incorporate the Flour
Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour, mixing slowly until the cookie dough begins to come together. If the dough appears too dry and crumbly, add milk a little at a time until a smooth consistency is achieved.
5. Prepare to Pipe the Cookies
Transfer the cookie dough into a piping bag that is fitted with a star tip. This will help you create the shape of the cookies more easily.
6. Pipe the Cookies
Pipe small swirls or circles of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading while baking.
7. Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, removing the cookies from the oven once the edges have turned a delightful golden brown.
8. Cool the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. After that, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Store and Enjoy
Once completely cooled, store the butter cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Enjoy them as a delightful treat with your favorite coffee or tea!
Notes
Storage Tips
These butter cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
Substitutions
If you want to experiment with flavors, consider adding citrus zest or using almond extract instead of vanilla for a different taste.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect for serving with coffee or tea and can also be enjoyed with a light dusting of powdered sugar on top for added sweetness.
Storage Instructions
Let the cookies cool completely
Before storing, ensure that the cookies have cooled down to room temperature to prevent moisture buildup.
Use an airtight container
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their texture and prevent them from becoming stale.
Refrigeration advice
If you wish to store the cookies for an extended period, you can refrigerate them. However, this may change their texture, making them slightly firmer.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with beverages
These butter cookies are excellent for dipping in coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, making them a perfect accompaniment for your favorite drinks.
Enhance with toppings
For an extra flair, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies or sprinkle them with powdered sugar before serving.
Serve at events
Ideal for gatherings and parties, these cookies can be served as a delightful dessert option on a dessert tray.
Nutritional Information
Per cookie (approximate)
Calories: 100
Total Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 50mg
Total Carbohydrates: 11g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 1g
Health note
These cookies are rich in butter and sugar, making them a treat to enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Ingredient Substitutions
Butter alternatives
For a dairy-free option, substitute unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil.
Sugar variation
If you're looking to reduce sugar intake, you can use a sugar replacement like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener, adjusting the quantity to taste.
Flour options
For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour, keeping in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
Cook techniques
1. Creaming the Butter and Sugar
Creaming the softened butter with powdered sugar is essential for incorporating air into the mixture, which helps create a light and fluffy texture in your cookies.
2. Properly Measuring Ingredients
Accurate measurement of ingredients, especially flour, is crucial. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife rather than scooping directly from the bag to avoid packing it down.
3. Using a Piping Bag
Piping the dough allows for uniform shapes and sizes, which helps ensure even baking. Use a star tip for decorative swirls or circles to enhance presentation.
4. Baking at the Correct Temperature
Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking. Baking at the recommended temperature of 175°C is key to achieving a crisp edge while keeping the centers soft.
5. Cooling on a Wire Rack
Cooling the cookies on a wire rack prevents them from becoming soggy. It allows air to circulate around the cookies, maintaining their crisp texture.
6. Storing Cookies Properly
Store your cooled cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. This helps retain their soft center while protecting the crisp edges.
FAQ
Can I substitute margarine for butter?
While margarine can be used, it may alter the flavor and texture of the cookies. For the best results, stick with unsalted butter.
What can I use instead of powdered sugar?
If you don't have powdered sugar, you can make your own by blending granulated sugar in a blender or food processor until fine, though the texture may differ slightly.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be golden brown around the edges. If the centers look slightly underbaked, they will set up as they cool.
Can I add other ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts?
Yes, feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or other mix-ins. Be sure to adjust the quantity so that it doesn’t affect the dough's consistency.
How long can these cookies be stored?
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks at room temperature. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
If your cookies are spreading excessively, it may be due to warm dough or insufficient flour. Ensure the dough is chilled before baking and double-check your measurements.
Conclusion
These butter cookies with a crisp edge and soft center are a delightful treat that anyone can enjoy. Their rich flavor and tender texture make them perfect for pairing with coffee or tea. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be able to create a batch that will impress your family and friends. Store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness, and savor the joy of homemade cookies anytime.
Chocolate Chip Butter Cookies
Combine the classic chocolate chip cookie with the buttery goodness of these cookies. Fold in 200g of chocolate chips after adding the flour for a sweet, melty surprise.
Citrus Zest Butter Cookies
Add a refreshing twist by incorporating the zest of one lemon or orange into the dough. This bright flavor will complement the richness of the butter.
Nutty Butter Cookies
Mix in 100g of finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, into the dough for added texture and a delightful crunch.
Spiced Butter Cookies
Enhance the flavor of your cookies by adding a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the batter. These warm spices work beautifully with the buttery richness.
Sandwich Cookies
Create delightful sandwich cookies by filling two cookies with a layer of cream cheese frosting or your favorite jam for an indulgent treat.
Matcha Butter Cookies
For a unique twist, add 2 tablespoons of matcha powder to the dough. This will not only give your cookies a lovely green hue but also a subtle earthy flavor.
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