Description
Traditional German Butter Cookies are classic, delicate cookies made with simple ingredients like butter, sugar, and vanilla. These buttery treats are rolled out and cut into charming shapes, then baked to a light golden perfection. They are perfect for festive occasions or everyday enjoyment, and can be optionally decorated with powdered sugar or chocolate for added indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 250 grams unsalted butter, softened
- 200 grams granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 500 grams all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Optional Toppings
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Chocolate for dipping or drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking during baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes using a mixer or by hand.
- Add Vanilla and Egg: Incorporate the vanilla extract and the large egg into the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing at low speed to avoid flour dust, just until the dough comes together without overmixing.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thickness. Alternatively, use a cookie press to shape the cookies.
- Cut Out Shapes: Cut the dough into desired shapes such as stars, hearts, or circles. Place the shaped cookies spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet to allow slight spreading.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, watching closely for the edges to become just golden, adjusting time based on cookie size.
- Cool the Cookies: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on it for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional Decoration: Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar or dip/drizzle them with melted chocolate to enhance flavor and appearance.
Notes
- Do not overmix the dough once the flour is added to keep the cookies tender.
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature to facilitate easy creaming with sugar.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup.
- Watch cookies closely in the oven as baking times may vary depending on thickness and size.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to a week.
- For a festive touch, decorate with colorful sprinkles or icing instead of chocolate or powdered sugar.
