Mother-In-Law Butter Cookies
Delicate, buttery cookies with a hint of vanilla and a crisp texture, perfect for holiday treats or sharing with family and friends. Easy to customize and decorate.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar until smooth and well combined.
- The mixture will be very soft.
- Add beaten egg, cream, and vanilla to the mixture and mix well.
- Sift together flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually mix the flour mixture into the butter mixture until a dough forms.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator until firm.
- Roll out the chilled dough very thin, about 1/4 inch thick, working with a portion at a time.
- Cut out cookies with desired shapes.
- Place the cut cookies on a greased cookie sheet and decorate as desired.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes until lightly golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon. If you want to reduce sugar, substitute half with a sugar alternative like erythritol. Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier creaming. If the dough is too sticky, add a touch more flour, but be careful not to overdo it as the cookies may become tough.
Serving Suggestions
These butter cookies are delightful on their own or paired with a cup of tea or coffee. They can also be served alongside a fruit salad, such as Yams And Apple Casserole, for a refreshing contrast. Consider decorating them with icing or sprinkles for festive occasions, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or cookie exchanges.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven to restore their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mother-In-Law Butter Cookies contains roughly 1442 calories, with 9g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 123g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 640mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
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, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter, but it may alter the flavor and texture slightly. Choose a stick margarine for best results, as tub varieties contain more water and can affect the consistency of the dough.
How can I make these cookies less sweet?
To reduce sweetness, you can decrease the sugar by up to 1/4 cup or replace some of it with a sugar substitute. Be cautious with adjustments, as sugar also contributes to texture and moisture.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts or chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and texture of the cookies. Add in about 1/2 to 1 cup of your favorite mix-ins when combining the flour mixture for a delicious twist.
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).