Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), softened
- Granulated sugar: 3/4 cup
- Large egg yolks: 2
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Milk: 1 tablespoon (optional, for brushing)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
- Step 2: Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Step 3: Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. The dough should be smooth.
- Step 4: Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a decorative tip, or roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness and use cookie cutters.
- Step 5: Pipe shapes onto an ungreased baking sheet or place cut out cookies on the prepared baking sheet. Brush tops with milk, if desired, for a golden sheen.
- Step 6: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain their delicate texture.
- To revive slightly softened cookies, crisp them up in a 300°F oven for a few minutes.
- Serve these buttery cookies with a cup of tea or coffee for a simple yet elegant treat.
- For extra tender cookies, ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted before creaming with the sugar.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American