Why Make This Recipe
Butter cookies are a timeless classic, especially during Christmas. They are simple to make and always a hit at holiday gatherings. The buttery flavor pairs wonderfully with festive drinks, making them the perfect treat for celebrating. Plus, these cookies are easy to decorate, allowing you to add a personal touch for your loved ones.
How to Make Butter Cookies for Christmas
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Flatten each ball slightly with a fork or your hand.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool before serving.
How to Serve Butter Cookies for Christmas
These butter cookies are great on their own or can be served with a cup of hot cocoa or tea. You can also dust them with powdered sugar or decorate them with icing and festive sprinkles to make them extra special for the holidays.
How to Store Butter Cookies for Christmas
Once your butter cookies have cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Butter Cookies for Christmas
- Make sure your butter is softened but not melted for the best texture.
- Don’t overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients; this helps keep the cookies tender.
- If you want softer cookies, remove them from the oven while they are still a bit soft; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Variation
Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the dough for a tasty twist on this classic recipe. You can also use food coloring in icing to decorate for Christmas.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter. Just reduce the amount of added salt to keep the taste balanced.
Can I add flavors other than vanilla?
Absolutely! Almond extract or lemon zest can add a nice flavor variation.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just let it soften a bit before rolling into balls.
Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure butter is softened but not melted for the best texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Can substitute with almond extract or lemon zest for variation.
- ½ teaspoon salt If using salted butter, reduce the added salt.
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Flatten each ball slightly with a fork or your hand.
Baking
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool before serving.
