Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s foolproof and endlessly versatile. Whether I’m baking for the holidays, a party platter, or just because I’m craving something buttery and sweet, these cookies always deliver. They remind me of shortbread, but even more tender, and they’re a blank canvas for any add-ins I feel like tossing in—lemon zest, vanilla extract, or festive sprinkles. Plus, I can whip up a batch in less time than it takes to watch a sitcom episode.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
1 cup butter, softened and slightly melted
-
1 cup powdered sugar
-
2 cups all-purpose flour
Directions
-
I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
In a large mixing bowl, I combine the softened butter and powdered sugar, mixing until the texture is smooth and creamy.
-
I gradually stir in the flour, a little at a time, until a soft dough forms.
-
I roll the dough into small balls—about a tablespoon each—and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little room between each.
-
I flatten each dough ball slightly using the bottom of a glass or just my fingers.
-
I bake the cookies for 12–15 minutes, until the edges are just lightly golden.
-
I let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
-
Servings: About 24 cookies
-
Prep Time: 10 minutes
-
Cook Time: 15 minutes
-
Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
-
Add vanilla: I stir in ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract for a deeper flavor.
-
Citrus twist: A teaspoon of lemon or orange zest gives the cookies a refreshing brightness.
-
Festive version: I press a few sprinkles or sanding sugar on top before baking for holiday flair.
-
Nutty option: Chopped pecans or walnuts added to the dough make them extra rich.
-
Drizzle finish: Once cooled, I sometimes drizzle with melted chocolate or glaze for an elegant touch.
Storage/Reheating
I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They also freeze beautifully—once cooled, I place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
If I want to warm them slightly before serving, I pop a few in the microwave for about 10 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven feel.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! I often make the dough a day in advance and chill it in the fridge. When ready to bake, I let it soften for a few minutes so it’s easier to shape.
Do I have to chill the dough?
It’s not required, but chilling the dough for about 30 minutes helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much, especially if my kitchen is warm.
Can I use granulated sugar instead of powdered sugar?
I wouldn’t recommend it. Powdered sugar gives these cookies their melt-in-your-mouth texture. Granulated sugar will make them more crisp and less tender.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, I swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be slightly different, but still delicious.
How do I keep them from crumbling?
Letting the cookies cool completely on the rack helps them firm up. They’re delicate, but once cooled, they hold together nicely.
Conclusion
These 3-ingredient butter cookies are a staple in my kitchen. They’re simple, satisfying, and always a hit with everyone who tries them. Whether I’m baking last-minute for guests or just want a little treat with my afternoon coffee, this recipe never fails. They’re the kind of cookie I can count on—classic, easy, and absolutely irresistible.
Print
3-Ingredient Butter Cookies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth butter cookies are made with just three ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes. The easiest classic cookie recipe you’ll ever bake!
Ingredients
1 cup butter, softened and slightly melted
1 cup powdered sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
Gradually stir in the flour until a soft dough forms.
Roll dough into small balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
Flatten each ball slightly using the bottom of a glass or your fingers.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Chill the dough for 30 minutes to help prevent spreading.
Only use powdered sugar (not granulated) for that classic, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temp for 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Optional Add-ins: A dash of vanilla extract, lemon zest, or colored sprinkles for fun variations.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Cookies
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
