🍪 Classic Butter Cookies Recipe (Easy & Homemade)

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  • February 1, 2026

These Classic Butter Cookies are rich, buttery, soft in the center, and lightly crisp on the edges. Made with simple pantry ingredients, this timeless recipe is perfect for tea time, holidays, or anytime you crave a homemade treat. No eggs, no fuss—just pure buttery goodness!


🧈 Ingredients

  • 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened

  • ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour

  • ¼ teaspoon salt


👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter.


Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter and sugar.
Beat using a hand mixer or whisk for 3–5 minutes until the mixture becomes light, pale, and fluffy.
This step is essential for soft and tender cookies.


Step 3: Add Vanilla

Add the vanilla extract and mix until fully combined.


Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the flour and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix gently until a soft dough forms.
⚠️ Do not overmix, as this can make the cookies hard.


Step 5: Shape the Cookies

  • Take small portions of dough and roll into balls.

  • Place them on the prepared baking tray, leaving space between each cookie.

  • Gently flatten each cookie with a fork to create a classic lined pattern.


Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges turn light golden.
Avoid overbaking—the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.


Step 7: Cool

Remove the tray from the oven and let the cookies rest for 5 minutes.
Transfer to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely.


✨ Tips & Variations

  • For extra flavor, add ½ teaspoon lemon zest or almond extract

  • Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for a bakery-style look

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days


☕ Serving Suggestion

Serve these classic butter cookies with tea, coffee, or milk.
Perfect for family gatherings, festive occasions, or everyday snacking.