Learn how to make classic Danish butter cookies with this easy and delicious recipe. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to afternoon tea. Using basic pantry ingredients, you can create these addictive treats that are sure to delight everyone. Serve them in a beautiful tin box or package them as gifts for loved ones.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Soft-paste food coloring (optional)
- 1/4 cup granulated or sanding sugar for sprinkling (optional)
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the dough into four equal portions. If desired, add a few drops of soft-paste food coloring to each portion and mix until the desired color is achieved. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Take one portion of the chilled dough and use a cookie press or piping bag fitted with a star-shaped tip to pipe shapes onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave some space between the cookies as they will spread slightly during baking.
- If desired, sprinkle the cookies with granulated or sanding sugar for added decoration and crunch.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Repeat the shaping and baking process with the remaining dough portions.
- Once completely cooled, store the Danish butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
