Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of heavenly soft and buttery homemade cookies:
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take out the unsalted butter from the fridge and let it soften at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This will make it easier to mix and cream with the other ingredients later on.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for the best results. This step ensures that your homemade cookies will have a wonderful soft texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat well until everything is thoroughly combined. The vanilla extract will give your cookies a lovely, aromatic flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your cookies tough instead of fluffy.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave enough space between the cookies, as they will spread slightly while baking.
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn golden brown. The centers may still appear slightly undercooked, but don’t worry! This will give your cookies that soft and chewy texture that everyone loves.
Once baked to perfection, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before devouring.
Experiment with Variations
This basic recipe is a versatile canvas for delicious variations. Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit, to take your homemade cookies to the next level. You can also sprinkle some sugar on top before baking for an extra touch of sweetness and crunch.
Now that you have the perfect recipe for soft and buttery homemade cookies, it’s time to head to the kitchen and start baking! Remember, the key is to enjoy the process and share these delightful treats with your loved ones. Happy baking!