1. Cream the Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
2. Add Egg Yolk & Vanilla
Mix in egg yolk and vanilla until smooth.
3. Add Flour & Salt
Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until dough forms. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
4. Shape the Cookies
- For piped cookies: Transfer dough into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip and pipe swirls onto a lined baking sheet.
- For simple rounds: Roll dough into a log, chill, then slice into rounds.
- For cut-outs: Roll out dough and cut into shapes.
5. Chill Dough (Important)
Refrigerate shaped cookies for 30 minutes—this helps them hold their shape while baking.
6. Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Cool & Enjoy
Cool on a wire rack. Dip in chocolate, sprinkle with sugar, or leave plain and buttery.
Tips for Success
- Use real butter – Margarine won’t give the same flavor or texture.
- Chill dough – Prevents spreading and ensures delicate edges.
- Pipe while dough is soft – For pretty swirls, don’t let dough firm up before piping.
- Storage – Keep in an airtight tin at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Fun Variations
- Chocolate-Dipped Butter Cookies – Dip half in melted dark chocolate and sprinkle with nuts.
- Jam Thumbprints – Press a small well in the center and fill with jam before baking.
- Holiday Spice – Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
- Sandwich Cookies – Spread Nutella, buttercream, or jam between two cookies.
Why These Cookies Are Timeless
Homemade Butter Cookies are the kind of recipe passed down through generations—simple, foolproof, and always delicious. They’re buttery, lightly crisp, and melt in your mouth, making them perfect for any occasion.
It’s a recipe you’ll make once and then keep forever.
Final Thought: If you’re looking for a cookie that’s simple, buttery, and endlessly versatile, these Homemade Butter Cookies are the one. Elegant enough for gifting, easy enough for everyday baking, and loved by everyone who tries them.