3-Ingredient Butter Cookies: A Simple, Delicious Recipe

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When you’re craving a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treat, nothing beats 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies. This straightforward recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, requiring just a few pantry staples and minimal effort. In this article, we’ll dive into the best tips and techniques for making these delicious cookies, along with answers to frequently asked questions and expert advice on getting perfect results every time. Let’s get baking!

What Makes 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies So Special?

Why are butter cookies so beloved? Part of the magic lies in their simplicity. With only three core ingredients—butter, sugar, and flour—these cookies deliver a rich, buttery flavor and soft texture without needing fancy techniques or a long ingredient list. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert, a holiday treat, or something to pair with a cup of tea, this recipe is a must-try. Plus, the recipe is so easy to customize!

Ingredients for 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies: What You Need

These cookies keep it simple with a few essentials:

1 cup (225g) unsalted butter – Softened at room temperature for easy mixing.
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough and helps achieve that perfect lightness.
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour – The main structure of the cookies, giving them that signature tender crumb.

(Optional) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Add for a hint of extra flavor if desired.

Why Unsalted Butter?

Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content precisely. This way, you get the perfect balance between the buttery flavor and sweetness without any risk of the cookies tasting overly salty.

Step-by-Step Directions for Making Butter Cookies

Ready to make some butter cookies? Follow these simple steps to whip up a batch of cookies that are deliciously golden and crumbly.

Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Cream Butter and Sugar Together
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Creaming these ingredients is essential for a light, airy texture in the final cookies.
Incorporate the Flour
Gradually add the flour into the butter-sugar mixture, stirring gently. You should get a smooth dough that’s easy to shape and just a bit sticky.

Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and arrange them on the baking sheet, leaving some space in between. Press each ball down with a fork, making a crisscross pattern on top of each cookie.
Bake
Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown. Be careful not to overbake—they should stay soft and tender in the center.
Cool the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents crumbling and helps them set properly.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies

If you want to make the most out of this simple recipe, here are some tips to enhance the flavor, texture, and overall experience:

1. Use Quality Ingredients

The flavor of butter cookies depends heavily on the quality of ingredients, especially the butter. Choose a high-quality unsalted butter for the richest taste.

2. Don’t Overmix the Dough

Once you add the flour, mix only until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough rather than soft and crumbly.

3. Experiment with Flavors

Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon, almond extract, or lemon zest for a twist on the traditional flavor. You can also top each cookie with a sprinkle of coarse sugar or chopped nuts before baking.

4. Proper Storage

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week and can be frozen for longer storage.

5. Get Creative with Shapes

Instead of balls, you can roll the dough into logs, slice it, or use cookie cutters to create fun shapes for holidays and special occasions.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits of 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies

These cookies are a tasty indulgence that can be enjoyed in moderation. Here’s a breakdown of their nutritional content per cookie:

Nutrient	Amount
Serving	1 cookie
Calories	100 kcal
Carbohydrates	12g
Protein	1g
Fat	5g
Saturated Fat	3g
Cholesterol	10mg
Sodium	30mg
Fiber	0g
Sugar	4g
Vitamin A	10% of DV
Calcium	1% of DV
Iron	2% of DV

These cookies are rich in fat, primarily from butter, which gives them their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. As a result, they’re a source of vitamin A and calcium, adding a small nutritional benefit. They’re best enjoyed as a treat or dessert.

FAQs About 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can substitute salted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe. Otherwise, the cookies may taste too salty.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure to chill the dough slightly if you’re in a warm environment. This helps the butter firm up and prevents excessive spreading during baking.

What if my dough is too crumbly?

If the dough feels too dry or crumbly, add a teaspoon of milk or water. This should help it come together more easily.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix to make these cookies gluten-free. They’ll have a slightly different texture, but will still be delicious.

How long can I freeze these cookies?

These cookies can be frozen for up to three months. Make sure to layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container to prevent them from sticking together.

Final Thoughts

With their rich, buttery flavor and soft texture, 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies are the perfect treat for anyone who loves a simple yet satisfying dessert. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for all skill levels, making it a go-to for last-minute cookie cravings or holiday baking sessions. Give this classic recipe a try, and don’t forget to experiment with different add-ins or shapes to make it your own!

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