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–+ servings
Old Fashioned Butter Cookies
Old Fashioned Butter Cookies are a nostalgic treat characterized by their tender crumb, crisp edges, and rich buttery flavor. These cookies were a staple in mid-century kitchens and often appeared during holidays or social gatherings. The use of cream and vanilla adds a luxurious smoothness, and their simple, timeless flavor pairs perfectly with tea or coffee. Whether cut into festive shapes or baked plain, they offer a cozy reminder of classic homemade baking.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 48 cookies
Calories 95 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup butter (softened)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream
  • 1½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

  • Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

  • In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with the sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

  • Beat in the egg, then add cream and vanilla. Mix until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

  • Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 5: Chill Dough

  • Divide the dough in half, flatten into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 7: Cut and Bake

  • Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to ¼-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes. Place cookies on an ungreased baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Step 8: Cool

  • Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Tips

  • Chill the dough thoroughly to prevent excessive spreading.
  • Use a cookie press or piping bag for decorative shapes.
  • Sprinkle tops lightly with sugar before baking for sparkle.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for subtle warmth.
  • Dip cooled cookies halfway in melted chocolate for variety.
  • Substitute vanilla bean paste for deeper flavor.
  • Roll dough balls in colored sugar for festive occasions.
  • Store baked cookies in an airtight tin to preserve texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 95kcalCarbohydrates: 10.5gProtein: 1gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.4gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 45mgPotassium: 15mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 4.8gVitamin A: 150IUCalcium: 8mgIron: 0.4mg
Keyword butter cookies, from scratch, holiday baking, nostalgic food, old fashioned, vintage baking
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