Butter Thin Cookies

Prep: 20 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Butter Thin Cookies are delicate, crisp treats with rich buttery flavor and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for tea time or special occasions, they can be customized with cinnamon, sugar, and nuts for added texture and aroma. These cookies are quick to prepare and sure to delight guests and family alike.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. butter
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 4.5 cups flour
  • 3.5 Tbsp sweet cream
  • 2 egg yolks

Instructions

  1. Cream together the butter, sugar, and flour until it forms small beads.
  2. Add the sweet cream and egg yolks to the mixture.
  3. Mix very well until smooth and combined.
  4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface as thin as desired.
  5. Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Dip the cut cookies in unbeaten egg whites; sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar mixture.
  7. Place chopped nuts on top if desired.
  8. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until light brown.

Tips & Substitutions

For a variation, try adding vanilla extract or lemon zest for extra flavor. If you prefer a lighter cookie, substitute half of the butter with applesauce. Make sure to chill the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling it out; this helps prevent sticking and makes the cookies easier to cut. For a festive twist, consider adding colored sprinkles on top before baking.

Serving Suggestions

These Butter Thin Cookies are delightful on their own, but can also be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat. For a fun presentation, arrange them on a platter with some fresh fruit or alongside a bowl of Dill-Lightful Sour Cream Dip for a unique pairing. They also make a great addition to holiday cookie platters.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies layered between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Butter Thin Cookies contains roughly 301 calories, with 6g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value) and protein (13% of the Daily Value).

301 kcal 15% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.5g 13% DV
Total Fat 13g 17% DV
Carbs 39.2g 14% DV
Fiber 2.1g 7% DV
Sugar 0.2g

Electrolytes

Sodium 8.9mg
Potassium 108.8mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 126.1mg 42% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 20.1mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 7mg 8% DV
Vitamin D 0.4mcg 2% DV
Calcium 23.4mg 2% DV
Iron 2.6mg 15% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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?

While you can substitute margarine for butter, it may alter the flavor and texture of the cookies. Butter provides a rich taste and contributes to the cookies’ crispness. If you choose margarine, look for a high-fat variety for the best results.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Butter Thin Cookies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the blend contains xanthan gum for proper structure. Adjust the baking time slightly if you notice they bake faster or slower than the original recipe.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky to roll out, sprinkle additional flour on the surface and on top of the dough as you work with it. Alternatively, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to handle. Just be cautious not to add too much flour, as it can make the cookies dry.

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).

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