These 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies are the ultimate minimalist dessert—easy to make, melt-in-your-mouth buttery, and perfect for any occasion. With just flour, butter, and sugar, these cookies prove that sometimes less is more. Whether you’re whipping them up for a quick treat, holiday baking, or a last-minute dessert, this recipe is foolproof and oh-so-satisfying. Let’s bake up these simple yet delicious cookies and enjoy every buttery bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal Ingredients: Only 3 pantry staples required—flour, butter, and sugar.
- Quick & Easy: No mixer needed, and ready in under 30 minutes.
- Customizable: Add sprinkles, extracts, or zest for extra flair.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holidays, parties, or everyday snacking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for sprinkling)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Lemon or almond extract
- Colored sprinkles or coarse sugar for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar with a wooden spoon or spatula until smooth and slightly fluffy.
2. Mix the Dough
- Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. If using extracts, mix them in at this stage.
- The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour (1 tablespoon at a time).
3. Shape the Cookies
- Scoop out small portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into balls.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Use the bottom of a glass or your fingers to gently flatten each ball into a disc, about 1/4-inch thick.
- Sprinkle the tops with granulated sugar or colored sugar for a decorative touch.
4. Bake the Cookies
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may still look soft but will firm up as they cool.
