Butter cookies are a classic, melt-in-your-mouth treat that are incredibly easy to make with just three simple ingredients: butter, powdered sugar, and flour. These cookies are perfect for holiday baking, tea time, or as an everyday snack.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making the perfect butter cookies, including step-by-step instructions, variations, tips for success, and storage tips to keep them fresh and delicious.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Only 3 Ingredients – Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
✅ No Eggs, No Baking Powder – Just pure buttery goodness.
✅ Easy to Customize – Add flavors, toppings, or fillings for variety.
✅ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for holiday gifts, tea time, or a quick sweet treat.
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Ingredients & Substitutions
1 cup butter (softened and slightly melted) – Use unsalted butter for a pure buttery flavor. If using salted butter, omit any added salt.
1 cup powdered sugar – Provides a smooth texture and mild sweetness. Can be substituted with finely blended granulated sugar if needed.
2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the cookies. Substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Make the Dough
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar using a hand mixer or whisk until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix—stop once the flour is fully incorporated.
3. Shape the Cookies
1. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
3. Flatten each ball slightly using the back of a fork or the bottom of a glass to create a decorative pattern.
4. Bake the Cookies
1. Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.
2. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Tips for the Best Butter Cookies
✔ Use high-quality butter – Since butter is the main ingredient, its quality directly affects the flavor.
✔ Measure ingredients accurately – Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour properly.
✔ Don’t overmix the dough – Overworking can lead to dense cookies. Mix just until combined.
✔ Chill the dough if needed – If the dough is too soft, refrigerate for 10-15 minutes before shaping.
✔ Check the cookies early – They should be just lightly golden on the edges. Overbaking can make them too crisp.
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Recipe Variations
1. Vanilla Butter Cookies
Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough for a richer flavor.
2. Chocolate-Dipped Butter Cookies
After baking, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and let it set.
3. Lemon Butter Cookies
Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for a fresh citrus flavor.
4. Nutty Butter Cookies
Mix in 1/4 cup finely chopped almonds or pecans for extra crunch.
5. Festive Holiday Butter Cookies
Sprinkle colored sugar or sprinkles on top before baking.
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Serving Suggestions
🍵 Pair with tea or coffee – These cookies are perfect with afternoon tea or espresso.
🎁 Gift them in a tin – They make a great homemade gift for holidays or special occasions.
🍨 Serve with ice cream – Use them as a crunchy topping for vanilla or chocolate ice cream.
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Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Room Temperature Storage
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Refrigeration
If you want to keep them extra fresh, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing Instructions
Freeze unbaked dough – Roll into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time.
Freeze baked cookies – Store in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use granulated sugar instead of powdered sugar?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly different. Powdered sugar makes the cookies softer and smoother, while granulated sugar results in a slightly crisper texture.
2. How do I make these cookies softer or crispier?
For softer cookies, bake for the minimum time and avoid overmixing the dough.
For crispier cookies, bake for 1-2 extra minutes and let them cool completely before storing.
3. Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute butter with vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
4. Can I add a filling to these cookies?
Yes! Before baking, press a small thumbprint in the center and fill it with jam, caramel, or Nutella.
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Final Thoughts
These 3-ingredient butter cookies are a simple yet delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them plain, decorated, or dipped in chocolate, they always deliver a rich, buttery flavor with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Try this easy recipe today and enjoy a batch of homemade butter cookies in just 22 minutes!
