There’s something incredibly rewarding about baking a batch of cookies that gives your kitchen that warm, inviting fragrance. The moment the buttery aroma of these Butter Cookies with Buttercream Frosting begins to fill the air, I’m transported back to my childhood, where afternoons were spent in the kitchen with family, laughter, and delicious treats.
These cookies are anything but ordinary—soft, slightly chewy, and topped with a rich buttercream frosting that’s just the right amount of sweet. They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations. And the best part? They’re easy to whip up, making them ideal for both seasoned bakers and those just starting out. No need for complicated techniques here—just simple ingredients and a little bit of love. Join me as we dive into the delightful world of homemade cookies that remind us of the joy found in the simplest pleasures!
Why are Butter Cookies with Buttercream Frosting irresistible?
Deliciously Soft Texture: The buttery dough yields cookies that are incredibly soft and slightly chewy, making each bite a treat.
Rich, Creamy Frosting: Topped with homemade buttercream, these cookies boast a silky smooth finish that complements the base perfectly.
Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.
Endless Customization: Feel free to incorporate your favorite flavors or colors into the frosting for a personal touch.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a party or a cozy family gathering, these cookies are sure to impress and delight everyone.
Need more inspiration? Check out my cookie baking tips for expert advice!
Butter Cookies with Buttercream Frosting Ingredients
• Get ready to create unforgettable treats!
For the Cookies
- 1 cup butter, softened – This is the star ingredient, ensuring a rich, buttery flavor.
- ¾ cup white sugar – Sweetens the cookies while keeping them soft.
- 1 large egg – Helps bind the ingredients together for a perfect texture.
- 2 tablespoons whole milk – Adds moisture to the dough, making it delightfully soft.
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract – Infuses the cookies with a warm, comforting flavor.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour – The base that gives structure to your cookies.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Provides the lift needed for a delightful chewy bite.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
For the Buttercream Frosting
- 1 cup butter, softened – Ensures your frosting is rich and creamy.
- 9 cups powdered sugar, divided – The sweet backbone of the frosting; add more for extra sweetness!
- 1 ½ tablespoons vanilla extract – Elevates the flavor, giving the frosting depth.
- 9 tablespoons evaporated milk – Adjust for desired consistency; this keeps your frosting silky smooth.
Now you have everything you need to bring those Butter Cookies with Buttercream Frosting to life! Happy baking!
How to Make Butter Cookies with Buttercream Frosting
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Cream Together: In a bowl, cream the softened butter and white sugar until smooth and fluffy, making sure to incorporate air for a lighter texture—about 2-3 minutes.
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Mix in Wet Ingredients: Beat in the large egg, whole milk, and vanilla extract until well combined, creating a delightful base for your cookies.
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Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir until a soft dough forms, bringing the lovely dough together effortlessly.
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s hot and ready to give your cookies that beautiful golden color.
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Scoop the Dough: Drop tablespoonfuls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, leaving enough space for the cookies to spread a bit while baking.
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Bake: Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes or until they turn golden around the edges, yet remain soft in the center.
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Prepare the Frosting: For that luscious frosting, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until ultra-smooth, about 3 minutes.
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Add Flavor and Adjust: Mix in the vanilla extract and evaporated milk, adding more milk as needed until you reach your desired creamy consistency for spreading.
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Frost the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cooled, generously frost them with your heavenly buttercream frosting, creating beautiful swirls of sweetness.
Optional: Sprinkle colorful sprinkles on top for a fun finishing touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Butter Cookies with Buttercream Frosting are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor homemade goodness even on your busiest days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it. For even more convenience, the baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just frost them right before serving to ensure the buttercream remains fresh and silky. To maintain the cookies’ soft texture, be sure to cool them completely before storing, preventing any moisture buildup. When you’re ready, simply pull them out, frost, and enjoy the sweet taste of home!
Expert Tips for Butter Cookies with Buttercream Frosting
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Use Room Temperature Butter: Ensure both the butter for the cookies and frosting are at room temperature for easy creaming and optimal texture.
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Don’t Overmix: When mixing in the flour, just combine until the dough comes together. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
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Watch Your Bake Time: Cookies should be removed from the oven when they’re golden around the edges but still soft in the center to maintain that delightful chewiness.
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Let Them Cool: Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off the warm cookies.
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Adjust Frosting Consistency: If your buttercream is too thick, add a little more evaporated milk for a smoother consistency that spreads easily.
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Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add different extracts or a hint of lemon zest to the buttercream for a delicious twist on your Butter Cookies with Buttercream Frosting.
What to Serve with Butter Cookies with Buttercream Frosting?
Creating a delightful spread around these delectable cookies can enhance your gathering, inviting smiles and joy.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness, balancing out each bite beautifully.
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Classic Milk: The timeless pairing of cold, creamy milk complements the buttery flavors, making each cookie taste even better.
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Decadent Hot Chocolate: Serve with rich hot chocolate topped with whipped cream for an indulgent treat that warms the heart.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a delightful creaminess that pairs beautifully with the moist cookie texture.
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Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling warm chocolate ganache over the cookies offers an extra layer of richness you won’t want to miss.
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Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy nut mix can offer a delightful contrast; the nuttiness elevates the simple cookie to something special.
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Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavors of coffee perfectly cut through the sweetness, creating a comforting duo for afternoon gatherings.
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Fluffy Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on the side adds a light touch that enhances the cookie’s rich frosting.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some caramel sauce for a sweet and salty pairing that elevates the flavor profile wonderfully.
With these pairings, you’ll create an unforgettable experience around your Butter Cookies with Buttercream Frosting, making every moment a sweet memory!
Butter Cookie Variations
Explore exciting twists and adjustments to make these butter cookies truly your own.
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Chocolate Chip: Fold in 1 to 2 cups of chocolate chips before baking for a delightful melty surprise in every bite.
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Nutty Cravings: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the dough for extra crunch and flavor. These little additions can make all the difference!
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest of one orange or lemon for a refreshing, aromatic twist that brightens the cookies beautifully.
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Spiced Up: Mix in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a warm, cozy flavor. This change can transport your cookies to autumn bliss!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter for your favorite dairy-free alternative, and use coconut or almond milk to keep things creamy. Perfect for those with dietary restrictions!
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Frosting Flavor Boost: Add a splash of flavored extract—almond or peppermint—to your buttercream for an unexpected burst of flavor that excites the taste buds.
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Decorative Touches: Swap out the traditional sprinkles for crushed candy canes or edible glitter to make your cookies extra festive and visually stunning.
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Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, adjusting the amount according to package instructions to keep them soft and tasty.
With these simple variations, you can make these butter cookies with buttercream frosting endlessly delicious and uniquely yours!
How to Store and Freeze Butter Cookies with Buttercream Frosting
Room Temperature: Store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them soft and fresh.
Fridge: If you’ve frosted your cookies, place them in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can last in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting and serving.
Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, gently reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds—enjoy your freshly baked Butter Cookies with Buttercream Frosting in no time!
Butter Cookies with Buttercream Frosting Recipe FAQs
What type of butter should I use for the cookies?
Absolutely! It’s best to use unsalted butter for both the cookies and the buttercream frosting. This allows you to control the saltiness in your treats, letting the sweet flavors shine through beautifully.
How can I tell if my butter is softened properly?
Very! Properly softened butter should be at room temperature, yielding easily to pressure but not melting. It should hold a slight imprint when you press it with your finger. If it’s too hard, just let it sit out for about 30 minutes before using it.
How long can I store my frosted cookies?
You can keep your frosted cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just be sure to store them in a single layer with parchment paper between the layers to avoid smudging the beautiful frosting!
Can I freeze the cookies? How?
Yes, you can! To freeze unfrosted cookies, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about 1 hour. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature before frosting.
What to do if my cookies come out too hard?
If your cookies are too hard, it could be due to overmixing the dough or baking them for too long. For a softer bite next time, ensure you mix just until combined and keep an eye on the bake time, removing them from the oven when they’re golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
Are these cookies safe for pets?
No, these Butter Cookies with Buttercream Frosting contain ingredients like sugar and butter that are not suitable for pets. It’s best to keep these sweet treats for yourself and your loved ones!
Decadent Butter Cookies with Silky Buttercream Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, cream the softened butter and white sugar until smooth and fluffy, making sure to incorporate air for a lighter texture—about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in the large egg, whole milk, and vanilla extract until well combined, creating a delightful base for your cookies.
- Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir until a soft dough forms, bringing the lovely dough together effortlessly.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s hot and ready to give your cookies that beautiful golden color.
- Drop tablespoonfuls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, leaving enough space for the cookies to spread a bit while baking.
- Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes or until they turn golden around the edges, yet remain soft in the center.
- For that luscious frosting, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until ultra-smooth, about 3 minutes.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and evaporated milk, adding more milk as needed until you reach your desired creamy consistency for spreading.
- Once the cookies are completely cooled, generously frost them with your heavenly buttercream frosting, creating beautiful swirls of sweetness.