Why You’ll Love 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies Recipe
This recipe is the definition of simple baking. With only three ingredients, it delivers incredible flavor and texture without complicated steps. There’s no need for eggs, special equipment, or chilling the dough, so you can have fresh cookies ready in under 30 minutes.
They’re wonderfully versatile, too. You can pipe them into elegant swirls, roll them into classic rounds, or dress them up with sprinkles or a drizzle of chocolate. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a gathering, or just a sweet craving, these cookies never disappoint.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
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In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
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Add the powdered sugar and mix until fully combined and fluffy. Avoid overmixing.
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Gradually add the flour and mix until a thick, soft dough forms.
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Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip, or scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls.
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Place the cookies about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets. If rolling into balls, gently flatten them with a fork.
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Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn lightly golden.
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Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring.
Servings and timing
Servings: Approximately 12–16 cookies
Prep time: 5 minutes
Bake time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: About 20 minutes
Variations
Chocolate-Dipped: Once cooled, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and let set.
Vanilla Twist: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Almond Flavor: Substitute 1/4 teaspoon almond extract for a subtle nutty taste.
Citrus Zest: Mix in a small amount of lemon or orange zest for a bright finish.
Sprinkle Topped: Add colorful sprinkles before baking for a festive touch.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their crisp texture.
For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
To refresh slightly softened cookies, place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3–5 minutes, then allow them to cool completely.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter. If you do, simply omit any additional salt from the recipe.
Why is my dough too crumbly?
If the dough seems crumbly, the butter may not be soft enough. Allow it to soften fully at room temperature and mix again until the dough comes together.
Can I chill the dough before baking?
Chilling is not required for this recipe, but you can chill the dough for 15–20 minutes if you prefer slightly firmer shapes.
Do these cookies spread while baking?
They spread very minimally, which makes them ideal for piping into decorative shapes.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The texture may vary slightly.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges should be lightly golden. The centers will remain pale but will firm up as they cool.
Can I freeze the dough instead of baked cookies?
Yes, you can freeze shaped dough portions. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips?
You can add small chocolate chips or finely chopped nuts, but keep additions minimal to maintain the cookie’s delicate texture.
Why use powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Powdered sugar creates a softer, more tender crumb and gives the cookies a smoother texture.
How can I make them extra crisp?
Bake them an additional 1–2 minutes until the edges are slightly deeper golden, watching carefully to prevent overbaking.
Conclusion
These 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies prove that simple ingredients can create something truly special. With their delicate texture and rich buttery flavor, they’re a reliable go-to recipe for both beginner and experienced bakers. Quick to prepare and endlessly adaptable, they’re sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation.
