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Holiday Butter Cookies Recipe

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4.3 from 81 reviews

Classic Holiday Butter Cookies that are rich, buttery, and perfectly tender. These simple yet delightful cookies are made with a smooth dough chilled to enhance flavor and texture, then baked to a delicate golden finish and dusted with powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Ingredients

Cookie Dough

  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • 2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch

For Dusting

  • 1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Cream Butter and Sugars: Using the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the butter, ¼ cup powdered sugar at medium speed for about 3 or 4 minutes until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix thoroughly to combine the flavors.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the salt, all-purpose flour, and cornstarch until evenly mixed. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the creamed mixture in the stand mixer, mixing at medium speed until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, transfer it to a heavily floured surface and gently knead until it reaches a soft, workable consistency.
  3. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling can be extended overnight or up to 24 hours to improve dough firmness and make shaping easier.
  4. Preheat Oven: About 10 minutes before baking, preheat the oven to 370°F (188°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  5. Shape and Bake: Scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of the chilled dough and roll it into a small ball. Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 minutes. The cookies might seem slightly underbaked but will firm up once cooled; avoid overbaking to keep them tender.
  6. Coat with Powdered Sugar: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool slightly but remain warm. Roll each cookie in the 1 cup powdered sugar until fully coated, then place on a rack or plate to cool completely. Serve and enjoy the festive buttery treat!

Notes

  • Chilling the dough is essential for the best texture and easier handling.
  • Do not overbake; the cookies are best when slightly soft in the center right out of the oven.
  • Use room temperature butter for optimal creaming results.
  • The powdered sugar coating adds sweetness and a festive snow-like finish.
  • You can store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.