Hey friends! Today, I’m excited to share a baking recipe that’s as timeless as it is delicious: Classic Butter Cookies. These beauties are crisp at the edges, tender in the center, and melt-in-your-mouth buttery — the kind of cookie that makes you close your eyes and smile with the first bite.

Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a cozy afternoon tea, or just because, this recipe is a keeper. I first made these with my grandmother during winter break, and the scent of vanilla and butter wafting through the house still brings back warm memories. They’re simple, elegant, and endlessly customizable — perfect for decorating or enjoying plain with a cup of coffee.

Let’s dive into the magic of butter and sugar!

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Recipe at a Glance

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Bake Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour
• Skill Level: Easy
• Servings: 24 cookies
• Tools Needed:
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Rolling pin & cookie cutters (optional)
  • Baking sheets & parchment paper
• Make-Ahead Tips:
  • Dough can be chilled up to 2 days
  • Baked cookies freeze well for up to 2 months

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Ingredients List + Substitutions

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes/Substitutions
Unsalted Butter	1 cup	Room temp for easy mixing
Granulated Sugar	1 cup	Can sub ½ with powdered sugar for softer texture
Large Egg	1	Adds richness and structure
Vanilla Extract	2 tsp	Almond extract adds a twist
All-Purpose Flour	2 cups	Spoon and level for accuracy
Salt	½ tsp	Balances sweetness
Milk (optional)	1–2 tbsp	Helps bring dough together if dry

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cream the Butter & Sugar

• In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
• Add egg and vanilla extract, and beat until fully incorporated.

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
• Gradually mix into the wet ingredients on low speed until just combined.
• If dough feels dry, add 1 tbsp milk at a time until smooth.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

• Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
• This helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances flavor.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Roll dough to ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface.
• Cut into shapes or roll into balls and flatten slightly.
• Place on parchment-lined baking sheets, spaced 1 inch apart.

Step 5: Bake

• Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
• Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

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Serving & Storage Tips

Method	Instructions
Room Temp	Store in airtight container for up to 5 days
Fridge	Keeps for 7–8 days; bring to room temp before serving
Freezer	Freeze baked cookies up to 2 months; thaw before serving

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Troubleshooting & FAQ

Issue	Solution
Cookies spread too much	Chill dough longer or reduce milk
Too dry or crumbly	Add a splash of milk or reduce flour slightly
Too soft	Bake 1–2 minutes longer for crisp edges
Dough too sticky	Chill longer or dust with flour before rolling

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Variations to Try

• Chocolate-Dipped: Dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed nuts or sea salt.
• Jam Thumbprints: Roll into balls, press a thumbprint, and fill with jam before baking.
• Spiced Twist: Add ½ tsp cinnamon or cardamom to the dough for a warm flavor boost.

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Closing Encouragement

These Classic Butter Cookies are proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. They’re easy to make, endlessly versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking with kids, gifting a batch, or just treating yourself, this recipe is your sweet little secret to cookie bliss.

Bake a batch, share the love, and let me know how yours turn out!