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3 Ingredient Butter Cookies Recipe


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3.9 from 49 reviews

  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 32 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Deliciously simple and buttery, these 3 Ingredient Butter Cookies are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With just butter, powdered sugar, and flour, these melt-in-your-mouth cookies offer a tender crumb and a rich buttery flavor. Ideal for beginners and cookie lovers alike, this recipe includes multiple shaping options and tips to ensure perfectly baked cookies every time.


Ingredients

Butter Cookies Ingredients

  • 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (116g) powdered sugar
  • 2 cups (250g) all purpose flour or cake flour (240g)


Instructions

  1. Prepare Baking Sheets: Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent cookies from sticking and allow even baking.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, add softened butter and powdered sugar. Using a mixer, cream on highest speed for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Stop periodically to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure all butter is incorporated evenly.
  3. Add Flour: Gradually add the flour to the creamed butter and sugar. Start mixing on a low speed to incorporate, then increase speed slightly once combined. The dough should take the appearance of a thick paste, smooth but firm.
  4. Shape the Dough: Choose one of the following shaping methods:
    1) Scoop the dough with a 1 tablespoon cookie scoop, roll into balls, then flatten into disks about 1/2 inch thick. Space them 1 inch apart on the baking sheet.
    2) Roll the dough into a log about 1 to 1.5 inches wide, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate until firm (about 30 minutes). Then slice into 1/2 inch thick rounds.
    3) Transfer dough to a piping bag fitted with an open star tip (1/2 inch opening). Pipe circle shapes about 1 1/2 inches wide, spacing 1 inch apart. If dough is too firm for piping, massage inside the bag or add 1 tbsp melted butter to soften slightly.
  5. Chill the Dough: Place prepared cookie sheets with shaped dough in the fridge for 30-60 minutes. Chilling firms the dough and prevents spreading during baking. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
  6. Bake the Cookies: Place one cookie sheet in the center of the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until edges and surface begin to turn a light golden brown. Rotate the sheet halfway through baking for even browning. Remove and cool on the cookie sheet before transferring. Bake the second tray after the first batch finishes.
  7. Storage: Once fully cooled, store cookies in an airtight container to maintain crispness. They last several days at room temperature or can be frozen for longer storage.

Notes

  • Using cake flour instead of all purpose flour can create a more tender cookie.
  • Ensuring the butter is softened (not melted) helps achieve the right dough texture.
  • Chilling the dough before baking is essential to prevent excessive spreading.
  • If the dough is too soft for shaping, refrigerate a few minutes or add a little flour.
  • Cookies are best served at room temperature once fully cooled to enjoy their delicate crumb and buttery flavor.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American