Favorite Butter Cookies(Makes 3 Dozen)
Delightful butter cookies with a tender crumb and subtle orange and vanilla flavors, perfect for sharing with family and friends during holidays or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
- Beat at low speed, scraping the bowl often, until well mixed, 1 to 2 minutes.
- Refrigerate the dough for 2 to 3 hours.
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough 1/3 at a time to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut out cookies with cookie cutters.
- Place on ungreased cookie sheets, 1 inch apart.
- If desired, sprinkle with colored sugar or bake and decorate later.
- Bake for 6 to 10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
- Remove immediately from the oven.
- Cool completely before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and adding a pinch of salt to the dough. You can substitute the orange juice with lemon juice for a different citrus twist. If you prefer, you can replace some of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor. Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly; this helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Serving Suggestions
These butter cookies make a delightful treat on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Strawberry Jello Pretzel Salad at gatherings. You can also decorate them with icing or colored sugar for special occasions, making them perfect for holidays or birthdays.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies by placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying. If you want to reheat, warm them in a 300°F oven for a few minutes to restore their freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Favorite Butter Cookies(Makes 3 Dozen) contains roughly 84 calories, with 1g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 2g 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?
Yes, you can use margarine as a substitute for butter in this recipe. However, the flavor and texture might differ slightly. For best results, choose a high-quality margarine that mimics the texture of butter.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly browned, usually after 6 to 10 minutes in the oven. It's crucial to keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven. Remove them promptly to avoid overbaking.
Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips into the dough before chilling. This addition will give the cookies a delicious chocolatey flavor, making them even more indulgent.
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).