🍪 Butter Cookies with Buttercream Frosting

📌 Basic Information

• Servings: 24 cookies

• Total Time: 1 hour (30 min prep + 30 min bake/cool)

• Skill Level: Easy to Intermediate

🧾 Ingredients

For the Butter Cookies:

• 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened

• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar

• 1 large egg

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 ½ cups (310 g) all-purpose flour

• ½ tsp baking powder

• ¼ tsp salt

For the Buttercream Frosting:

• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cups (250 g) powdered sugar

• 2 tbsp heavy cream (or milk)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Food coloring (optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

   • In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

   • Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.

   • In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.

   • Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture until dough forms.

2. Shape and Bake

   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

   • Roll dough into small balls or use cookie cutters for shapes.

   • Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.

   • Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden.

   • Cool completely before frosting.

3. Make the Buttercream Frosting

   • Beat butter until creamy.

   • Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with cream.

   • Mix in vanilla extract.

   • Add food coloring if desired.

4. Decorate

• Spread or pipe frosting onto cooled cookies.

• Add sprinkles or decorations for festive flair.

💡 Notes and Tips

• Serving: Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or tea-time treats.

• Variations: Add lemon zest to dough, swap vanilla for almond extract, or use chocolate frosting.

• Storage: Store in airtight container at room temperature for 3 days, or refrigerate up to 1 week.

🌱 Benefits & Vitamins

• Butter: Source of Vitamin A for eye health.

• Eggs: Provide protein and Vitamin D.

• Milk/cream: Adds calcium for strong bones.

• Moderation Tip: While delicious, enjoy in moderation due to sugar and fat content.

✨ Extra Tips

• Chill dough for 20 minutes before baking for thicker cookies.

• Use piping bags for professional-looking frosting designs.

• Add festive sprinkles for seasonal appeal.

🔍 Top FAQ

Q1: Can I make butter cookies without eggs? Yes, substitute with 2 tbsp milk or 1 tbsp yogurt for binding.

Q2: How do I keep butter cookies soft? Store in airtight containers and avoid overbaking.

Q3: Can I freeze butter cookies? Yes, freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 2 months. Frost after thawing.

Q4: What’s the best frosting for butter cookies? Classic buttercream works best, but cream cheese frosting is a tasty alternative.

Q5: How do I make cookies more flavorful? Add extracts (almond, lemon) or spices (cinnamon, nutmeg).