Recipe for Delicious Homemade Butter Cookies

Butter cookies are the epitome of comfort and indulgence. These rich and buttery treats melt in your mouth, leaving behind a delightful sensation. Making your own batch of homemade butter cookies is not only satisfying, but also allows you to customize the flavor and texture according to your preference. Here is a simple and scrumptious recipe for delicious homemade butter cookies that are bound to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done using an electric mixer or by hand using a wooden spoon.

2. Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until well combined and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition. The dough should come together and not be sticky. If it is still a bit sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.

4. Once the dough is ready, divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a log, approximately 2 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if preferred. Chilling the dough ensures easier slicing and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

6. Remove the chilled dough logs from the refrigerator and unwrap them. Using a sharp knife, slice the logs into ¼ inch thick rounds. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small gap between each cookie.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn golden brown. Be careful not to over bake them as they may become too crispy.

8. Once the cookies are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. The homemade butter cookies are now ready to be enjoyed! They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the freezer for longer shelf life.

Variations:
– For a twist on the classic recipe, you can add a tablespoon of lemon zest or finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, to the dough before chilling.
– To make chocolate butter cookies, substitute ¼ cup of the all-purpose flour with cocoa powder.
– Sprinkle the cookies with colored sugar or dip them in melted chocolate for an extra decorative touch.

Homemade butter cookies are a simple yet elegant treat that never fails to please. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a sweet treat on its own, these delicate cookies are sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, put on your baking apron, and get ready to indulge in the buttery heaven that is homemade butter cookies.