Classic Italian Butter Cookies Recipe

Name: Classic Italian Butter Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large egg yolks; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

There’s something undeniably enchanting about the buttery aroma wafting from the kitchen while baking Italian butter cookies. This timeless treat, with roots steeped in warmth and family traditions, will definitely bring joy to your home. Perfect for tea time or as a delightful gift, these cookies melt in your mouth, inviting everyone to savor the comforting flavors of Italy.

Why Make This Recipe

Simplicity at Its Best: These cookies only require a handful of ingredients, making it a breeze to whip up a batch anytime.
A Touch of Nostalgia: The buttery richness is reminiscent of those joyful family gatherings around the kitchen table.

If you’re looking for a sweet delight that satisfies both your sweet tooth and your nostalgia, this classic recipe is just the ticket.

Easy Method for Classic Italian Butter Cookies

Ready to embark on your baking adventure? Making classic Italian butter cookies is straightforward and enjoyable, perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Follow these delightful steps to create your own batch of buttery goodness.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large egg yolks
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even bake for your cookies.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream them together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. The lightness of the mixture is a key factor in achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla: Next, add the egg yolks, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Pour in the vanilla extract and blend until fully incorporated. The combination of egg yolks and vanilla will add richness and flavor to your batter.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the butter mixture, mixing well until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender.
Shape the Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, take small portions of dough and form them into balls, about one inch in diameter. For added elegance, roll each ball in powdered sugar or leave them as they are for a classic look.
Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure to leave some space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remember, they will continue to cook slightly once they’re out of the oven, so don’t let them get too dark.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They can be dusted again with powdered sugar if desired.

Storage Tips for Classic Italian Butter Cookies

To keep your classic Italian butter cookies fresh and delicious, follow these guidelines:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They should remain soft and tasty.
Refrigeration: If you prefer to enjoy them cool, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. Just let them warm up a bit before serving.
Freezing: Freeze the cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw them at room temperature, and they’ll still taste as fresh as the day you made them.

How to Serve Classic Italian Butter Cookies

Serving your classic Italian butter cookies can be just as delightful as baking them. Here are some flavorful ideas to enjoy your creations:

With Coffee or Tea: Pair these cookies with your favorite beverage. The buttery richness complements coffee beautifully, while the sweetness balances out a well-brewed tea.
Cookie Platters: Present them on a charming platter alongside fresh fruit, other baked treats, or even some chocolates for a stunning dessert table.
Gifts: Package the cookies in a decorative tin or box with a handwritten note. They make for a heartfelt gift during holidays or when visiting friends.
Ice Cream Sandwiches: Try layering a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies for an irresistible treat that kids and adults will love alike.

Tips to Make Classic Italian Butter Cookies

Use Quality Butter: For the best flavor, choose high-quality unsalted butter. The flavor difference will shine through in your cookies.
Don’t Skip the Chilling: If you have time, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before shaping it. This will yield a slightly firmer dough and make shaping easier.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add citrus zest or almond extract to elevate the flavor profile of the cookies.

Variations or Substitutions

Nutty Twist: If you enjoy a bit of crunch, add chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts to the dough. This will give the cookies a delightful texture and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the buttery base.
Chocolate Delight: Want to indulge your sweet tooth? Fold in some chocolate chips for a rich variation that perfectly complements the buttery cookie base. You can use semisweet, dark, or even white chocolate, depending on your palate.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cookie dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. Just thaw it in the fridge before baking.

Q: How do I keep the cookies soft and chewy?
A: Ensure not to overbake your cookies; remove them from the oven when they are light golden at the edges. They will firm up as they cool.

Q: Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour?
A: Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend. However, results may vary, so it’s often best to use a blend designed for baking cookies.

Nutritional Info

Though delicious, snacks like our classic Italian butter cookies should be enjoyed in moderation. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information for a single cookie (based on the provided ingredients and typical serving sizes):

Calories: Approximately 150
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 50mg
Total Carbohydrates: 19g
Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 1g

These values may vary depending on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can sometimes feel daunting, but avoiding these common mistakes can make your cookie journey much smoother:

Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Always use a scale or measuring cups to ensure your ingredients are precise, as this can significantly impact texture and flavor.
Ignoring Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. Overly soft butter can lead to flat cookies, while cold butter won’t incorporate well.
Overmixing the Dough: Once you combine your flour with the butter mixture, mix just until your dough comes together. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

Final Thoughts

Baking classic Italian butter cookies is more than just preparing a simple treat; it’s about creating memories, inviting warmth, and indulging in a little sweetness. With their smooth buttery texture and delightful flavor, these cookies carry a taste of Italy right into your kitchen. Whether enjoyed with family, friends, or all alone on a cozy afternoon, these cookies are sure to bring joy to any occasion. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of fresh-baked cookies fill your home. Enjoy the process, share the results, and embrace the comfort these classic treats provide. Happy baking!