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The Ultimate 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies

A close-up of four golden brown 3-ingredient butter cookies stacked on a white plate near a window.

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Make simple, buttery cookies using only three basic ingredients. These cookies are quick to prepare and have a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  3. Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined and a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
  4. Roll the dough into small balls or shape it using a cookie press or piping bag. Place the shapes onto the prepared baking sheets.
  5. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
  6. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For an eggless variation that maintains structure, you can substitute the egg with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed into the flour, though this recipe is naturally egg-free.
  • For a shortbread texture, chill the dough for 30 minutes before shaping and baking.
  • You can press the tops of the cookies with a fork before baking to create a crosshatch pattern.

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