Soft, buttery, and bursting with the comforting aroma of vanilla, these cookies are a timeless treat that feels like a warm hug. With a golden exterior and a melt-in-your-mouth center, each bite delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and richness. Ready in just over an hour, they’re ideal for baking with loved ones or savoring solo with a cup of tea.
Packed with indulgent flavor and a hint of nostalgia, these vanilla cookies are as versatile as they are delicious. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or a dessert to impress, their irresistible texture and simple elegance make them a go-to favorite. Plus, with only 10 minutes of bake time, you’ll have a batch of happiness ready in no time!
Ingredients for Vanilla Cookies
- For the Cookies:
- ▢ ¾ cup butter, softened (unsalted preferred, but salted works with reduced salt)
- ▢ ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ▢ 2 large eggs (room temperature for easier mixing)
- ▢ 3 teaspoons vanilla extract (pure vanilla for best flavor)
- ▢ ½ teaspoon salt
- ▢ 2 ¼ teaspoons baking powder
- ▢ 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled for accuracy)
- For the Frosting:
- ▢ 2 ½ cups powdered sugar (sifted for smooth frosting)
- ▢ 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- ▢ ½ Tablespoon vanilla extract
- ▢ 3 Tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- ▢ ⅓ cup sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the salt, baking powder, and flour. Mix until the dough comes together and no dry streaks remain. Avoid overmixing.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps prevent spreading during baking.
- Preheat the Oven: While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and flatten slightly using the bottom of a glass until about ½ inch thick.
- Bake: Bake for 9-10 minutes, or until the edges are barely golden brown. The centers should still look soft but set.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the powdered sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and spreadable. Add more milk if needed for a thinner consistency.
- Decorate: Frost the cooled cookies and immediately top with sprinkles, if desired.
- Store: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Creative Frosting and Topping Ideas
While the classic vanilla frosting and sprinkles are delightful, you can easily switch things up! Try a lemon glaze by mixing 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons lemon juice and 1 teaspoon lemon zest. For a chocolate twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies or dip half of each cookie in chocolate. If you’re feeling adventurous, add crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or even edible glitter for a fun, festive touch!
Perfect Pairings for Serving
These vanilla cookies are a versatile treat that pairs well with many beverages. Serve them with a warm cup of milk for a classic combo, or enjoy them alongside a hot latte or herbal tea. For a special occasion, arrange them on a platter with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple yet elegant dessert.
Storage Tips for Freshness
To keep your cookies soft and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to freeze them, place unfrosted cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and frost just before serving for the best texture.
Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Bakers
Short on time? Skip the chilling step by using a cookie scoop to portion the dough directly onto the baking sheet. You can also make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to a month. When ready to bake, let the dough soften slightly before rolling and baking.
Common Questions Answered
Can I use margarine instead of butter? While butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, margarine can be used as a substitute. Just ensure it’s softened and unsalted. Why chill the dough? Chilling helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much, giving them a perfect thickness and texture. If you’re in a rush, 30 minutes in the freezer can work in a pinch!
Vanilla Cookies
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup butter, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 3 teaspoons vanilla
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 1/4 cups flour
Frosting
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 Tablespoon vanilla
- 3 Tablespoons milk
- 1/3 cup sprinkles
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar.
- Mix in eggs and vanilla until combined.
- Add salt, baking powder and flour. Mix until well combined.
- Cover and chill for at least one hour in the refrigerator.
- Preheat oven to 350 ℉.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and flatten using a glass until 1/2 inch thick.
- Bake for 9-10 minutes, or until barely beginning to turn golden brown.
- Let cookies cool completely.
- Frosting
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together all frosting ingredients until smooth.
- Frost cookies and top with sprinkles.
- Store in an airtight container.