3‑Ingredient Butter Cookies – Simple, Classic & Melt‑in‑Your‑Mouth
Introduction
Sometimes the best recipes are the simplest. These 3‑Ingredient Butter Cookies are proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create something truly delicious. With just butter, powdered sugar, and flour, you’ll have tender, melt‑in‑your‑mouth cookies that are perfect for tea time, holiday trays, or everyday snacking.
This recipe is beginner‑friendly, quick to make, and endlessly versatile—you can enjoy them plain or dress them up with sprinkles, chocolate drizzle, or jam centers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Only 3 ingredients: Pantry staples you already have.
Quick & easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
Buttery & soft: Classic shortbread‑style texture.
Customizable: Add flavors or toppings to make them your own.
Ingredients
1 cup butter, softened and slightly melted
1 cup powdered sugar
2 cups all‑purpose flour
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar and mix until smooth. Gradually stir in flour until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Shape Cookies
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll into balls. Place on prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with the back of a fork or the bottom of a glass for a classic look.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
Step 5: Cool & Serve
Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Enjoy plain or decorate as desired.
Tips & Tricks
Chill dough: If too soft, refrigerate for 20 minutes before shaping.
Extra flavor: Add 1 tsp vanilla extract or almond extract.
Festive touch: Sprinkle with colored sugar before baking.
Storage: Keep in airtight container up to 1 week.
Variations
Jam Thumbprints: Press a small indentation in each cookie and fill with jam before baking.
Chocolate Drizzle: Cool cookies, then drizzle with melted chocolate.
Nutty Twist: Roll dough balls in chopped nuts before baking.
Holiday Style: Add sprinkles or dip half in white chocolate.
Serving Ideas
Pair with tea or coffee for a cozy snack.
Add to holiday cookie platters.
Gift in decorative tins for friends and family.
Serve alongside ice cream for a simple dessert.
FAQs
Q: Can I use granulated sugar instead of powdered sugar?
Powdered sugar gives a softer texture, but granulated sugar will make them slightly crispier.
Q: Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, freeze shaped dough balls up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to bake time.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—this recipe scales easily for larger batches.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: ~25 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Final Thoughts
These 3‑Ingredient Butter Cookies are buttery, tender, and delightfully simple. They’re the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again—perfect for beginners, busy bakers, or anyone craving a quick homemade treat.