Ingredients
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter, softened to room temperature
- ½ cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Beat them together using a hand or stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well blended, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add vanilla and salt: Incorporate the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt into the creamed mixture. Mix gently until everything is fully combined.
- Mix in flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet mixture. Stir gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can toughen the cookies.
- Chill the dough: Shape the dough into a log, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to firm up, which will make slicing easier and improve cookie texture.
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Slice dough: Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and slice it into ¼-inch thick rounds. Arrange these slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
- Bake cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges just start turning golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Transfer the baked cookies onto a wire rack and let them cool completely. Once cooled, serve immediately or store in an airtight container for freshness.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is properly softened to room temperature for easy creaming with sugar.
- Do not overmix the dough to keep the cookies tender.
- Chilling the dough is essential for maintaining shape when baking.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian