When it comes to baking, few ingredients are as versatile and beloved as butter. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, there’s no denying the magic that happens when you combine butter with sugar, eggs, and flour. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious butter cookie recipes that are perfect for every occasion. From classic vanilla flavors to innovative flavor combinations like matcha green tea and raspberry filled, we’ve got a recipe to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Whether you’re looking for a simple snack or a show-stopping dessert for your next gathering, these butter cookies are sure to impress. And the best part? They’re all surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients and tools.
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of butter cookie recipes, highlighting the top 20 flavors that will have you hooked from the very first bite. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s get started!
Classic Vanilla Butter Cookies
A sweet and buttery classic, these cookies are a staple in any cookie lover’s repertoire. With just the right balance of vanilla and sweetness, they’re perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Glazed Butter Cookies
Brighten up your baking with these sweet and tangy Lemon Glazed Butter Cookies! With a hint of citrus and a crumbly texture, these treats are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt to taste
– Lemon glaze (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. Stir in lemon zest, juice, and flour. Season with salt to taste.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Lemon Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Mix until smooth and drizzle over cooled cookies.
Chocolate Dipped Butter Cookies
Rich butter cookies take a step up with the addition of velvety chocolate, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
4. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
7. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
8. Dip cooled cookies into melted chocolate, letting excess chocolate drip off.
9. Place dipped cookies on parchment paper or a silicone mat to set.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Almond Butter Cookies
A delicious twist on traditional cookies, these chewy treats are packed with the rich flavor of almond butter and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup creamy almond butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: chopped almonds or sea salt for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and almond butter until smooth.
3. Gradually add sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Butter Cookies
Experience the subtle sweetness of matcha green tea paired with rich buttery goodness in these tender cookies.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon matcha green tea powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, confectioners’ sugar, matcha green tea powder, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and mix until dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
5. Place cookies 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Raspberry Filled Butter Cookies
Sweet and tangy, these butter cookies are filled with a surprise burst of fresh raspberries, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt to taste
– Fresh raspberries, for filling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour and salt; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool completely before filling with fresh raspberries.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pistachio Butter Cookies
Get ready to sink your teeth into a deliciously nutty and buttery treat with these Pistachio Butter Cookies!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup pistachio meal
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg
– Colored sprinkles or chopped pistachios for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, pistachio meal, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Orange Zest Butter Cookies
Brighten up your snack time with these sweet and tangy cookies infused with the warmth of orange zest.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange zest
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add orange zest and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cinnamon Spiced Butter Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are infused with the warmth of cinnamon and a hint of sweetness, perfect for a cozy treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Optional: confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add flour mixture to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in cinnamon.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Earl Grey Tea Butter Cookies
Add a touch of sophistication to your baking with these unique Earl Grey tea-infused cookies, perfectly balanced by the subtle citrus notes and rich buttery flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup Earl Grey tea-infused honey (or regular honey with 1 tsp Earl Grey tea powder)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten
– Decorative sugar, for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and honey until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Stir in beaten egg until smooth.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden around edges.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Peanut Butter Swirl Cookies
Peanut Butter Swirl Cookies Recipe
A classic cookie recipe with a creamy peanut butter swirl, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in peanut butter and egg until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Divide the dough into two portions. Roll out each portion to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Place one portion on top of the other, creating a layered effect.
8. Use a knife or spatula to create a swirly design.
9. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Coconut Butter Cookies
These chewy cookies are packed with the rich flavor of coconut butter and a hint of tropical sweetness. Perfect for a snack or dessert, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together coconut butter and sugars until smooth. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. If using nuts, fold them into the dough.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Maple Pecan Butter Cookies
These chewy cookies are infused with the warmth of maple syrup and the crunch of toasted pecans, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in flour mixture until just combined, then fold in chopped pecans.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lavender Honey Butter Cookies
Savor the sweet charm of these soft-baked cookies infused with the soothing essence of lavender and the richness of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup lavender syrup or dried lavender buds
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
– Honey, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add lavender syrup or dried lavender buds; mix until well combined.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes per batch
Double Chocolate Butter Cookies
Rich, chewy cookies packed with double the chocolatey goodness and a hint of buttery sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chunks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Stir in chocolate chips and dark chocolate chunks.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gingerbread Butter Cookies
Warm up with these soft and chewy cookies infused with the spicy warmth of gingerbread and the richness of butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and milk.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Red Velvet Butter Cookies
A classic combination of red velvet flavor and creamy butter cookies, perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon red velvet mix (or 1 teaspoon cocoa powder and 1/2 teaspoon beet juice)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– Colored sprinkles or chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add red velvet mix and mix until combined.
4. Beat in the egg until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Chai Spiced Butter Cookies
Warm up with a cup of chai and a plate of these aromatic cookies! Chai Spiced Butter Cookies combine the comforting flavors of butter, sugar, and spices to create a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Chai spice blend (see note)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in Chai spice blend (see note).
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Note: To make Chai spice blend, combine 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground ginger, 1/4 tsp ground cardamom, and 1/4 tsp ground cloves in a small bowl. Mix well and use as directed.
Cherry Almond Butter Cookies
Sweet and nutty, these Cherry Almond Butter Cookies are a delicious treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup creamy almond butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and almond butter until smooth.
3. Add granulated sugar and confectioners’ sugar; beat until combined.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add flour, baking soda, and salt; mix until a dough forms.
6. Fold in chopped cherries.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Brown Butter Cookies with Sea Salt
Rich, chewy cookies infused with the deep flavor of brown butter and a touch of sea salt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or espresso powder for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and sea salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of buttery goodness! This collection of 20 delicious butter cookies recipes has something for every occasion. From classic vanilla and chocolate dipped treats to more unique flavors like lemon glazed, matcha green tea, and lavender honey, there’s a recipe to suit your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for sweet or savory options, these butter cookies are sure to please. Perfect for baking with friends, surprising loved ones, or simply satisfying your own cravings, these recipes will be your new go-to guide.
