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There’s nothing quite like the scent of freshly baked vanilla butter cookies filling your kitchen. These cookies are a classic that never goes out of style, and they’re incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients! Whether you’re planning to bake them for an afternoon snack, a holiday celebration, or just because you need a sweet treat, this recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen. Trust me, you’re in for a real treat!
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Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Vanilla Butter Cookies Ingredients
  • 1 cup 225g unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup 150g granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 ½ cups 315g all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Tools You'll Need
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Hand or stand mixer
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Cookie cutters if shaping into fun designs!
  • Wire cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Vanilla Butter Cookies
  2. Preheat the Oven
  3. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  4. Cream the Butter and Sugar
  5. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
  6. Add the Egg and Vanilla
  7. Crack in the egg and add the vanilla extract. Beat again until everything is fully combined and smooth.
  8. Mix in the Dry Ingredients
  9. Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet mixture, mixing on low until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix! You want the dough to just come together.
  10. Shape the Cookies
  11. If you prefer drop cookies, simply scoop out small spoonfuls of dough and roll them into balls. For cut-out cookies, roll the dough out to about ¼ inch thick on a floured surface and use your favorite cookie cutters to shape the dough.
  12. Bake the Cookies
  13. Place the cookies on your prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch between them. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges just start to turn golden. Keep an eye on them—overbaking can make them dry!
  14. Cool and Enjoy
  15. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The smell when these are in the oven is incredible!!

Notes

For a Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough.
Switch up the Extracts: Swap out vanilla extract for almond, coconut, or even peppermint for a fun flavor twist.
Chocolate Lovers: Dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate or drizzle chocolate over the top for an extra indulgent touch.

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