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Classic Melt-in-Your-Mouth Butter Cookies

A close-up of several golden, slightly craggy butter cookie mounds piled on a light gray plate.

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Create rich, buttery cookies that dissolve in your mouth using simple pantry ingredients. This recipe offers clear steps for perfect results every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
  2. Beat in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and optional almond extract until just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
  3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
  5. Divide the dough in half. Wrap each half in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. For shaping: If using a cookie press, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to press dough directly onto the prepared sheets. If rolling and cutting, lightly flour a surface, roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness, and cut out shapes.
  8. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The centers should remain pale for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For a Danish style, press the dough through a cookie press fitted with a star or ribbon disc.
  • Add 1/2 teaspoon of fresh lemon zest to the dough for a bright flavor variation.
  • If you prefer a crispier edge, bake for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent over-browning.
  • These cookies store well in an airtight container for up to one week, making them great for gifting.

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