Classic Danish Butter Cookies

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
• 0.5 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 egg (large, room temperature)
• 2 cup all-purpose flour
• 0.25 tsp salt

Steps

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color.

3. 3

   Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat well until fully incorporated and smooth.

4. 4

   In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.

5. 5

   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until no streaks of flour remain. Do not overmix.

6. 6

   Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe the dough into 2-inch circles or rosettes onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

7. 7

   Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden brown.

8. 8

   Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For the classic look, use a piping bag with a star tip to create the signature ring shape. If the dough is too stiff to pipe, you can add a tablespoon of milk to thin it slightly. Store in an airtight container for up to one week.

Nutrition per serving

• dessert
• snack
• cookies
• baking
• holiday
• Danish