Hands down, one of my fave cookies of all time!

Butter cookies are a cherished staple in many Midwestern homes, and they hold a special place in my heart. These delightful treats are simple yet elegant, with a rich, buttery flavor that takes me back to my childhood days spent in my grandmother's kitchen. The recipe has been passed down through generations, each one adding their own touch, but always keeping the essence of tradition alive. They're perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a family gathering or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea.

Butter cookies are wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of sides. They complement a warm cup of coffee or tea beautifully, making them an ideal choice for an afternoon snack. For a more festive touch, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. During the holiday season, they pair well with a glass of eggnog or hot cocoa, bringing a touch of sweetness to your celebrations.

Servings: 24 cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the vanilla extract and egg, mixing until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a fork or your fingers.

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

For a touch of citrus, add the zest of one lemon or orange to the dough. You can also sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, try dipping half of each cookie in melted chocolate and letting them set for a decadent treat. For a festive look, press a whole almond or a candied cherry into the center of each cookie before baking.