Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Special equipment needed:
- Electric mixer
- Cookie cutters
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disk.
7. Roll out each disk on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness.
8. Cut out desired shapes with cookie cutters and place them on baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Cool the cookies on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
- Makes about 3 dozen cookies
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 120
- Total fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 35mg
- Total carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter, but omit the salt in the recipe.
- Brown sugar can be used instead of granulated sugar for a slightly different flavor.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the dough for added texture and flavor.
- Use different shaped cookie cutters for different occasions, such as hearts for Valentine's Day or stars for Christmas.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before starting the recipe.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling it out to make it easier to handle.
- If the dough becomes too soft while rolling it out, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes before continuing.
Storage instructions:
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
- To refresh the cookies, place them in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the cookies on a platter and dust them with powdered sugar.
- Serve the cookies with a cup of tea or coffee.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle the cookies with colored sugar or sprinkles before baking for a festive touch.
Pairings:
- Serve the cookies with a glass of milk or hot cocoa.
Suggested side dishes:
- These cookies are perfect on their own, but can also be served with fresh fruit or a cheese platter.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk to moisten it.
- If the cookies spread too much while baking, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before starting the recipe.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food history:
- Butter cookies originated in Denmark in the 1800s and have since become a popular treat around the world.
Flavor profiles:
- These cookies have a rich, buttery flavor with a slightly sweet taste.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve these cookies as a dessert or snack.
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