Danish Butter Cookies

Prep: 20 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 48 Cuisine: Danish

Delightful Danish Butter Cookies are rich, buttery treats with a crisp texture, perfect for holidays or gifting, appealing to those who enjoy sweet, melt-in-your-mouth confections.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups butter
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 4 cups flour
  • 2 egg yolks

Instructions

  1. Cream butter and powdered sugar together until smooth and well combined.
  2. Add egg yolks and beat until fully incorporated.
  3. Gradually add flour and mix until a dough forms.
  4. Roll out the dough to 1/8-inch thickness on a floured surface.
  5. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and decorate as desired.
  6. Place cookies on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown, about 10 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, consider using half unsalted butter and half cream cheese. You can also substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor. When rolling out the dough, keep flour on your surface to prevent sticking, and chill the dough for easier handling. If you want variations, try adding almond or vanilla extract to the dough.

Serving Suggestions

These Danish Butter Cookies are delightful on their own or served with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also pair them with homemade egg substitute for a lighter dessert experience. For festive occasions, consider arranging them on a platter with Finksa Kakor (Finnish Cakes) for a charming cookie assortment that guests will love.

Storage & Reheating

Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, pop them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes to restore their crispness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Danish Butter Cookies contains roughly 174 calories, with 3g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 7g fat.

174 kcal 9% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.3g 7% DV
Total Fat 6.6g 8% DV
Carbs 25.7g 9% DV
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 19.6g 39% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 11.7mg 1% DV
Potassium 28.2mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 179.3mg 60% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 36.2mcg 4% DV
Vitamin D 0.8mcg 4% DV
Calcium 23mg 2% DV
Iron 1.1mg 6% 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?

While you can use margarine, the cookies may not have the same rich flavor and texture as those made with butter. For the best results, stick with unsalted butter. If you have dietary restrictions, consider using a plant-based butter substitute, but be aware that the texture may vary.

How can I make these cookies more festive?

Add colored sprinkles or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for a festive touch. You can also use holiday-themed cookie cutters to create fun shapes. For a seasonal flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.

What can I do if the dough is too crumbly?

If your dough is too crumbly, try adding a teaspoon of milk or water to help bind it together. Mix gently until the dough holds together but avoid overworking it. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes can also make it easier to roll out and cut.

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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