Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line two baking trays with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream the Butter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar for 3–4 minutes until pale, light, and fluffy.
Step 3: Add the Egg
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Cornstarch
- Baking powder
- Salt
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
For piped cookies, transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
Pipe rosettes, strips, rings, or S-shapes onto the prepared baking trays.
For sandwich or rectangular cookies, roll the dough to ¼ inch (6 mm) thick and cut into your desired shapes.
If making thumbprint cookies, gently press the center with your thumb and fill with a small spoonful of jam.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking tray for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 7: Decorate
Once completely cool:
- Drizzle with melted chocolate or white chocolate.
- Fill sandwich cookies with jam or chocolate spread.
- Dust with powdered sugar.
- Garnish with candied cherries or colorful sprinkles if desired.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months.
- If filling with jam or chocolate, wait until the cookies are completely cool.
Flavor Variations
- Lemon Butter Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest.
- Almond Cookies: Replace vanilla with 1 teaspoon almond extract.
- Chocolate Butter Cookies: Replace ¼ cup flour with ¼ cup cocoa powder.
- Orange Butter Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon orange zest for a fresh citrus flavor.
These bakery-style butter cookies are perfect for holidays, afternoon tea, gift boxes, or anytime you want a delicious homemade treat. Enjoy! 🍪✨
