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4.35 from 41 votes

Butter Cookies

Homemade Christmas Butter Cookies are a must-make for the holidays! Soft and tender with amazing buttery flavor, and a festive presentation. 
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Chilling Time30 minutes
Total Time47 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Servings: 24 cookies
Author: Kristin Maxwell

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Unsalted butter softened (see notes - use high-quality, name brand butter)
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar
  • 1 Large egg
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 2 cups All purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon Salt
  • 1-2 tablespoons Milk or more if needed; any kind

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and prepare a baking sheet by lining with parchment paper. Set aside.
  • In a large bowl or stand mixer, mix the butter and sugar on medium low speed until light and fluffy.
  • Add the egg and vanilla and continue beating on medium low speed until smooth.
  • Slowly add the flour and salt just until fully incorporated - do not overmix.
  • Add the milk 1 tablespoon at a time, using the minimum amount possible to reach a piping consistency.
  • Place the batter in a piping bag, and pipe small circles onto the prepared baking sheet. Add sprinkles if desired. Chill the baking sheets in the refrigerator for at least 20-30 minutes.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until the edges of the cookies begin to turn golden brown.
  • Remove from the oven and cool completely before serving.

Notes

Store cookies at room temperature for 5-7 days or freeze for up to 6-8 months.
It is very important to chill the dough AFTER piping and BEFORE baking.
Weather conditions and altitude can all make a difference in baking. If your cookies are spreading, your dough may need a few tablespoons more flour. 
Some readers have commented that they have had trouble with their cookies spreading. Unfortunately, due to supply chain issues and shortages, many brands have discreetly changed the ingredients in their butter, which has resulted in higher moisture content. I highly recommend using a high-quality, brand-name butter (I recommend Challenge, Kerrygold or Tillamook brands).  You can also try adding a few more tablespoons of flour to compensate.

Nutrition

Calories: 142kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 27mg | Sodium: 53mg | Potassium: 18mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 248IU | Calcium: 6mg | Iron: 1mg

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