Short Description
These 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies are the simplest and most delightful treat you can whip up in no time! With just butter, powdered sugar, and flour, you can create melt-in-your-mouth cookies that are perfect for any occasion. These cookies are light, tender, and subtly sweet, making them an ideal snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup butter, softened and slightly melted
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Preparation:
Baking these delightful butter cookies is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps to enjoy a batch of freshly baked goodness:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure the oven is fully heated before you start baking to achieve the best results.
Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheets
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 3: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Beat them together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Flour
Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms. The dough should be smooth and pliable, not sticky.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter.
Step 6: Arrange on Baking Sheets
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Step 7: Flatten the Cookies
Slightly flatten each ball with the back of a fork to create a crisscross pattern or use the bottom of a glass for a smooth, decorative look.
Step 8: Bake
Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as these cookies are meant to remain light in color.
Step 9: Cool
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Why you’ll love this recipe
These 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies are perfect for those moments when you crave something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. They’re incredibly easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and deliver a delightful flavor and texture. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced pro, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Serving Suggestions:
- Tea or Coffee: Serve these cookies with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Ice Cream: Crumble the cookies over vanilla ice cream for a simple yet delicious dessert.
- Gift Giving: Package the cookies in a decorative tin or bag to give as a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Holiday Treat: Add a festive touch by using cookie cutters to create holiday-themed shapes.
Tips:
- Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is softened but not fully melted. If the butter is too melted, the cookies may spread too much during baking.
- Extra Flavor: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor of the cookies.
- Shapes and Patterns: Use cookie cutters to make festive shapes, or roll the edges of the dough balls in colored sugar for a decorative touch.
- Crispier Cookies: Flatten the dough balls slightly thinner and bake for an additional 1–2 minutes if you prefer a crisper texture.
- Toppings: Drizzle the cooled cookies with melted chocolate or sprinkle with powdered sugar for extra flair.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 20-22 minutes
Nutrition Information: (per cookie, approximate)
- Calories: 80
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 5mg
Conclusion
These 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies are a testament to the fact that simple recipes can be incredibly satisfying. With their delicate texture and subtly sweet flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or a special event, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of this classic treat!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
- Can I use salted butter for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use salted butter, but consider omitting any additional salt that the recipe might call for to balance the flavors. Unsalted butter is generally recommended to have more control over the saltiness of the cookies.
- What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
- If your dough is too sticky, gradually add a tablespoon of flour at a time until the dough becomes smooth and pliable. Be careful not to add too much flour, as this can make the cookies dry.
- How do I store these cookies to keep them fresh?
- Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze the cookies for longer storage; just thaw them before serving.
- Can I add any other ingredients to this recipe?
- Yes, you can add other ingredients to customize the flavor. Consider adding vanilla extract, almond extract, lemon zest, or a pinch of cinnamon. Chocolate chips or chopped nuts are also great additions.
- Why did my cookies spread too thin while baking?
- Cookies may spread too thin if the butter was too melted or if the oven temperature was too low. Make sure your butter is softened but not fully melted, and verify that your oven is properly preheated to the correct temperature.