Are you craving a taste of simple perfection? These Kentucky Butter Cookies are the answer. They're buttery, melt-in-your-mouth delights, perfect for afternoon tea, holiday gatherings, or a spontaneous moment of self-indulgence. This easy recipe is a fantastic introduction to homemade cooking, delivering delicious results with minimal effort. Get ready to experience the magic of these classic cookies!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses common ingredients, making it incredibly accessible for everyone. Let’s gather them up!
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: Coarse sugar for sprinkling (adds a delightful crunch!)
Instructions: Baking Bliss in Easy Steps
Follow these steps, and you'll be enjoying warm, buttery cookies in no time. It’s a quick dinner alternative that's undeniably delicious!
Step 1: Cream Together Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is best achieved using an electric mixer, but you can certainly do it by hand for a good arm workout!
Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix – this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 4: Shape and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. For extra flair, sprinkle with coarse sugar before baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
Step 6: 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. Enjoy these homemade treats warm or at room temperature – they are equally delightful!
Tips for Kentucky Butter Cookie Success
- Softened Butter is Key: Ensure your butter is properly softened. This will allow for easier creaming and a smoother cookie dough. You can soften it quickly by microwaving in short bursts, but be careful not to melt it.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough cookies. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep a close watch on your cookies towards the end of the baking time. They are done when the edges are golden brown.
Variations to Delight Your Taste Buds
- Chocolate Chip Kentucky Butter Cookies: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a delicious twist.
- Spiced Kentucky Butter Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Citrus Kentucky Butter Cookies: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the dough for a bright and refreshing flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie – Approximate)
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: 6-7g
- Sugar: 6-8g
These Kentucky Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that’s easy to make and even easier to love. Enjoy the process and the delicious results of this simple yet satisfying recipe. They're a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion!