Butter Cookies (The Best You Ever Had) 🍪
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: Depends on batch size
Yield: 1 Batch
Description:
Indulge in the nostalgia of homemade goodness with these Butter Cookies, passed down through generations. This recipe, a cherished heirloom from the creator’s mother, promises an unparalleled delight that has stood the test of time for over seven decades. Prepare to experience the epitome of buttery bliss, as these cookies are hailed as the absolute best by all who taste them!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup sweet butter, softened
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 1/4 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cold tap water
Instructions:
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Prepare Ingredients: Ensure to use sweet butter for the authentic taste. Avoid substituting with salted butter or margarine. Allow the butter to naturally soften at room temperature; avoid melting it on the stove or in the microwave.
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Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the softened butter with the salt, granulated sugar, egg, baking powder, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, and the tablespoon of cold tap water. Use a large wooden spoon for mixing; refrain from using a dough machine or food processor to preserve the unique texture and flavor of the cookies.
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Hand Mixing: Embrace the tradition by mixing the ingredients by hand. As the dough thickens, you may notice some strain on your wrist and fingers. Resist the temptation to add more water; this step ensures the perfect consistency for the cookies.
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Use a Mirro Cookie Press: For the classic shape and texture, utilize a Mirro Cookie Press (no other brand will do). Fill the press with the thoroughly mixed dough and twist it onto an UNGREASED cookie sheet. Rotate the press slightly as you lift to create neatly formed cookies.
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Variety of Shapes: Explore your creativity by changing the shape of the cookies after making several of one design. The dough is versatile, allowing you to craft an array of delightful shapes that add to the visual appeal.
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Decorate: Elevate the cookies’ presentation by adorning them with different kinds of jimmies and cookie decorations. This step adds a personal touch and enhances the overall aesthetic of the treats.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 410 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the cookies, keeping a close eye to ensure they do not begin to brown. Feel free to open the oven door to check their progress as often as needed.
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Cool and Serve: Once the cookies show the slightest hint of golden color, promptly remove them from the oven. Use a spatula or butter knife to transfer them to plates for cooling. The cookies can be stacked without sticking together, simplifying the serving process.
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Repeat: Enjoy the baking process as you make batch after batch of these irresistible butter cookies. The ungreased cookie sheet can be reused multiple times, allowing you to continue baking without interruption.
Tips:
- For individuals with arthritis, consider enlisting the help of a friend or family member for mixing the dough.
- Experiment with different decorations and shapes to tailor the cookies to various occasions and preferences.
- Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness for several days.
Conclusion:
Savor the moment as you bite into these Butter Cookies, lovingly crafted from a cherished family recipe. Whether shared with loved ones or enjoyed as a personal treat, each bite transports you to a realm of unmatched delight. Experience the joy of tradition and the unparalleled taste of homemade goodness with every batch of these beloved cookies!
