Melt-in-Your-Mouth Butter Cookies

Instructions:

1. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, contributing to the cookies’ tender texture.
2. Add Vanilla Extract: Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sift together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the creamed butter, mixing until a soft dough forms. The addition of cornstarch is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth quality. Pretty Simple Sweet
4. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two portions, shape each into a log approximately 1.5 inches in diameter, and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least one hour to firm up the dough, which helps maintain the cookies’ shape during baking.
5. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Slice and Bake: Unwrap the chilled dough and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place them on the prepared baking sheets about an inch apart. If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar on top for added sweetness and texture. The Kitchen
7. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as these cookies are meant to be pale and tender.
8. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Butter Cookies

• Use High-Quality Butter: The flavor of butter is paramount in this recipe. Opt for high-fat, European-style butter to enhance the richness of your cookies. Pinch and Swirl
• Ensure Proper Consistency: If the dough is too soft to slice or pipe, chilling it longer can help. Conversely, if it’s too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before handling.
• Avoid Overmixing: Once the dry ingredients are added, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

Variations to Try

• Chocolate-Dipped Butter Cookies: After the cookies have cooled, dip them halfway into melted chocolate and allow them to set on parchment paper. This adds a decadent touch to the classic cookie.
• Citrus Zest Infusion: Incorporate finely grated lemon or orange zest into the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Spiced Butter Cookies: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced version.

These butter cookies are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee, gifting during the holidays, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home. With their delicate texture and rich flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.