Why You Will Love This Recipe
These butter cookies are a testament to the idea that sometimes, less is more. They are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and time, yet they deliver a satisfying taste and texture that will impress anyone who tries them. The cookies are buttery, slightly sweet, and have a delightful crumbly texture that makes them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea, serving them at a gathering, or simply indulging in a sweet treat after dinner, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your household.
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Ingredients:
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- (Optional) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for extra flavor
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. While the oven heats, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or a wooden spoon, cream them together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the dough, which will help the cookies rise slightly during baking. Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. If you want to elevate the flavor, this is the perfect moment to mix in the optional vanilla extract, which adds a lovely aroma and depth to the cookies.
Step 3: Shape Cookies
Once the dough is ready, take small portions and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring you leave enough space between them as they will spread slightly during baking. For a classic touch, use a fork to gently press down on each dough ball, creating a crisscross pattern on top. This not only gives the cookies a lovely appearance but also helps them bake evenly.
Step 4: Bake Cookies
Carefully place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This allows them to firm up a bit before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 5: Serve
After the cookies have cooled completely, they are ready to be enjoyed! Pair these simple yet delicious 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or your favorite hot beverage. If you have any leftovers (though they might not last long!), store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh for days.
Serving Suggestions:
These butter cookies are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them plain, or you can dress them up by dipping them in melted chocolate or drizzling them with icing. Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty combination. They also make a wonderful base for ice cream sandwiches—just scoop your favorite ice cream between two cookies for a delightful dessert.
Tips:
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- For a fun twist, consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the dough.
- If you prefer a sweeter cookie, feel free to increase the amount of sugar slightly.
- Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or lemon, to customize the flavor of your cookies.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing to avoid them becoming soggy.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 100 per cookie (approx.)
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 20mg
Conclusion
These 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that showcases the beauty of simplicity in baking. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a batch of cookies that will impress family and friends alike. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in these buttery delights!
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
- Can I substitute the unsalted butter with margarine?
Yes, you can use margarine, but it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the cookies. Unsalted butter is recommended for the best taste. - What can I use instead of all-purpose flour?
You can try using gluten-free flour blends or almond flour, but the texture may differ. Adjustments in measurements may be needed. - How should I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week. - Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before baking. - What can I add to the cookies for extra flavor?
Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or spices like cinnamon. Vanilla extract is a great way to enhance the flavor as well!
