Are you craving a delightful treat that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further! These Italian butter cookies are the perfect answer. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are a classic for a reason – their delicate buttery flavor and slightly crisp texture are simply irresistible. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is perfect for whipping up a batch of homemade goodness. It's one of those easy recipes that always delivers delicious results, making it ideal for quick dinner ideas or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple step prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup – a must for every homemade cooking endeavor.
Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. A stand mixer works wonderfully, but a good old-fashioned hand mixer will do the trick just as well.
Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined before moving to the next step.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Shape and Bake:
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Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Use a fork to gently flatten each ball, creating a slightly criss-crossed pattern on top. This adds a beautiful touch to these simple cookies.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them as ovens can vary.
Cool and Enjoy:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, dust with powdered sugar, if desired.
Tips for the Best Italian Butter Cookies:
- Softened Butter is Key: Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted. This ensures proper creaming and a tender crumb.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Proper Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies as baking time may vary depending on your oven. Start checking for doneness around the 10-minute mark.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from breaking.
Variations:
- Lemon Zest: Add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Almond Extract: Substitute almond extract for vanilla extract for a nutty twist.
- Chocolate Chips: Fold in ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a delicious chocolate-butter cookie combination.
- Different Shapes: Instead of balls, roll the dough into logs and slice them into smaller cookies for a different look.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: Approximately 6-8g
- Sugar: Approximately 6-8g
These Italian butter cookies are a wonderful addition to any occasion. They're a simple pleasure perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. The recipe is easily adaptable, so feel free to experiment with different flavors and additions to create your own unique version. Happy baking!