Holiday Butter Cookies

Prep: 20 min Cook: 8 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Festive holiday butter cookies with a rich buttery flavor, perfect for decorating and sharing during celebrations. Suitable for all ages and cookie enthusiasts.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 2/3 cups flour

Instructions

  1. Cream butter and sugar together.
  2. Add egg, salt, and vanilla extract; blend well.
  3. Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms.
  4. Chill the dough in the refrigerator.
  5. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface.
  6. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on a baking sheet.
  7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 7 to 10 minutes until edges are golden.
  8. Allow cookies to cool before frosting or decorating.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using salted butter instead of unsalted. You can also substitute half of the flour with almond flour for a nutty twist. If you prefer a festive touch, add colored sprinkles or a hint of cinnamon to the dough. Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly; this helps maintain the shape of the cookies during baking.

Serving Suggestions

These buttery cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat alongside a cup of tea or coffee. For a delightful presentation, frost with royal icing or decorate with colorful sprinkles. They pair beautifully with Individual Cheese Cakes for a festive dessert table and can be a lovely addition to cookie platters during celebrations.

Storage & Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving, or warm in the oven for a few minutes for a fresh-baked taste.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Holiday Butter Cookies contains roughly 60 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.

60 kcal 3% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.9g 2% DV
Total Fat 1.1g 1% DV
Carbs 11g 4% DV
Fiber 0.4g 2% DV
Sugar 0.3g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 319.9mg 14% DV
Potassium 81.9mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 27.1mg 9% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 6.3mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 3.7mg 4% DV
Calcium 25.6mg 2% DV
Iron 0.3mg 1% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-fat
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 a different type of sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper flavor and chewier texture. Keep in mind that this may slightly affect the color and spread of the cookies.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky to roll out, try adding a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Chilling the dough for an additional 15-30 minutes can also help firm it up.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to three days. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough for up to three months, allowing it to thaw in the refrigerator before 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).

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