Swedish Butter Cookies
Swedish Butter Cookies are delicate, crisp treats with a rich buttery flavor and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for holidays or tea time, these cookies can be customized with jam fillings for added sweetness. Their simple ingredients and elegant appearance make them a favorite among cookie lovers of all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together butter, egg, and vanilla.
- Add flour, sugar, and baking powder, then mix well.
- Place dough on a lightly floured board.
- Divide the dough into 4 parts.
- Shape each part into a roll 12 inches long and 1/2-inch thick.
- Place on ungreased baking sheets 4 inches apart and 2 inches from the edges.
- Make a depression 1/4 inch deep along the length of each roll with your finger.
- Fill the depressions with jam or jelly, using about 1/3 cup in total.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until lightly golden.
- Slice the cookies while still warm, after the jelly has set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and adding a pinch of salt to the dough. If you're out of vanilla extract, almond extract can be a delightful substitute. To make the cookies more colorful and fun, experiment with different jams or jellies. If you want a bit of crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
These Swedish Butter Cookies are perfect for a tea party or holiday cookie platter. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a delightful afternoon snack. For a fun twist, serve them alongside Kid'S Play Dough for a creative gathering with kids, turning snack time into a playful experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes, which will help restore their original texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Swedish Butter Cookies contains roughly 115 calories, with 2g protein, 19g 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, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in this recipe. However, using butter will give a richer flavor and a better texture. If you choose margarine, opt for a stick form rather than a tub for the best results.
What can I use if I don't have eggs?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes). These alternatives will help bind the ingredients together, though the texture may be slightly different.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften before shaping.
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).