Butter Cookies
Buttery and crisp, these butter cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With a hint of vanilla and almond, they offer a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Ideal for gatherings, tea parties, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, they can be decorated to suit any celebration.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Work butter in bowl until creamy; gradually add sugar and beat until fluffy.
- Add the whole egg, egg yolk, vanilla, and almond extract; beat thoroughly.
- Add flour and mix well.
- Chill at least 2 hours or longer.
- Heat oven to 350°.
- Divide dough into 4 equal portions and roll out 1 portion at a time, leaving the remainder in the refrigerator.
- Place dough on floured board; cover with a sheet of floured waxed paper to prevent sticking and roll out 1/8-inch thick.
- Carefully remove waxed paper and cut dough into desired shapes with a floured cookie cutter.
- Place cookies 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
- Continue rolling and cutting until all the dough is used.
- Beat together the egg and water and brush over the tops of unbaked cookies before garnishing with nuts, cherries, and colored sugar.
- Bake 10 to 12 minutes.
- Cool on wire racks.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using European-style butter, which has a higher fat content. If you don't have almond extract, you can substitute with an equal amount of vanilla extract. Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature for easier mixing. If the dough becomes too soft while rolling, refrigerate it briefly to make it easier to handle.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these butter cookies with a warm cup of Hot Chocolate for a delightful treat. You can also pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Consider garnishing with colorful sugars or chopped nuts for added texture and visual appeal, making them perfect for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in a microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butter Cookies contains roughly 124 calories, with 2g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use margarine instead of butter for this recipe?
Yes, you can use margarine as a substitute for butter. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture might differ slightly. Choose a good quality margarine for the best results, ensuring it’s softened before mixing to achieve that creamy consistency.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To make these cookies more festive, consider adding colored sugar or sprinkles on top before baking. You can also incorporate seasonal flavors like cinnamon or nutmeg for a holiday twist. Personalizing with icing or a drizzle of Out Of This World Frosting can elevate their appearance and taste.
What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough is too crumbly, try adding a teaspoon of water or milk to help bind the ingredients together. Make sure to mix gently until the dough comes together. If the dough remains crumbly, refrigerating it for a short time may also help it hold together better when rolling out.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).