There’s something utterly heartwarming about baking cookies that reminds me of simpler times spent in the kitchen with my grandmother. The scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the air, filling every corner of the house, brings a smile to my face and warmth to my heart. Butter cookies, with their delicate texture and melt-in-your-mouth sweetness, are like a gentle hug from the past.
Why make this recipe
This 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies recipe is as simple and comforting as a story passed down through generations. With just three humble ingredients, these cookies embody the spirit of Southern hospitality. You won’t need any fancy gadgets or complicated measurements; just pure, unadulterated love. Plus, they’re perfect for any occasion—from a cozy afternoon treat to a sweet addition to family gatherings.
How to make 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to a warm 350°F (175°C), letting the anticipation fill your kitchen.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until it’s as smooth as a calm summer evening.
- Gradually add in the flour, mixing until everything is well combined and feels like a soft, comforting dough in your hands.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them lovingly on a baking sheet. With a fork, flatten each ball slightly, creating little craters that will hold all that buttery goodness.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn a lovely, light golden color, like the first rays of morning sun.
- Let your cookies cool on a wire rack, but try not to sample too many because they’re hard to resist!
How to serve 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies
Serve these delightful cookies with a cup of hot tea or a glass of sweet iced lemonade. They’re perfect for snacking, and if you’re feeling extra generous, you can even pack them into a pretty tin to share with friends and neighbors.
How to store 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies
These cookies store beautifully in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature, and they’ll stay fresh for up to a week—or longer if you hide them well enough!
Tips to make 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies
- Ensure your butter is truly softened; it makes all the difference when it comes to creaming.
- If you’d like a pinch of extra flavor, consider adding a dash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of salt to the dough.
- Be gentle when flattening the cookie balls; too much pressure might lose that lovely texture.
Variations
If you’re feeling frisky, try incorporating chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a little twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
A: While unsalted butter is recommended for better control of sugar levels, you can use salted butter if that’s all you have. Just reduce the added sugar slightly.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can make the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. Just let it soften slightly before rolling.
Q: Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
A: Yes! Once cooled, these cookies freeze beautifully. Just place them in an airtight container, and they’ll keep for about three months.
Baking can feel like magic, can’t it? Each batch of cookies carries with it a sense of home, love, and tradition. As you make these delightful little treats, I hope they bring you as much joy as they do for me. And remember, the kitchen is a place where memories are made, so gather your loved ones, bake together, and indulge in the simple pleasure of the sweetest things in life, one cookie at a time. Enjoy!

3-Ingredient Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Gradually add in the flour, mixing until well combined into a soft dough.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place on a baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with a fork.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until edges are light golden.
- Let the cookies cool on a wire rack.