Description
Classic Danish Butter Cookies with a rich, buttery flavor and a crisp, tender texture. These cookies are perfect for any occasion and can be optionally dipped in dark chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Optional
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (for dipping)
Instructions
- Prep: Gather all ingredients and ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter with the sifted powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the pure vanilla extract until fully incorporated, enhancing the cookie’s flavor.
- Add Flour and Salt: Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour and pinch of salt, blending just until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.
- Shape: Transfer the dough into a piping bag fitted with a decorative tip. Pipe desired shapes like circles, pretzels, or classic buttons onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Chill Dough: Place the piped cookies in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to firm up, which helps maintain shape during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye to prevent overbaking, which can dry out the cookies.
- Optional Chocolate Dip: If desired, melt dark chocolate chips in a microwave or double boiler. Dip cooled cookies halfway into the melted chocolate and place on parchment paper to set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Notes
- Use unsalted butter to control the salt balance in the cookies.
- Sifting the powdered sugar prevents lumps and helps achieve a smoother dough.
- Piping ensures delicate, uniform shapes but you can also roll and cut dough if preferred.
- Chilling the dough before baking is crucial to maintain shape and texture.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Dark chocolate dipping is optional but adds a delicious contrast.
