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The Easiest 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies Recipe You’ll Ever Make

Close-up of four golden 3-ingredient butter cookies with fork marks, stacked on a light ceramic plate.

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You need just three simple ingredients for these melt-in-your-mouth butter cookies. This recipe is fast, requires no mixer, and creates buttery, crisp treats perfect for any time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. You can do this by hand or with a hand mixer.
  3. Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed or stirring by hand until just combined. Do not overmix the dough.
  4. Shape the dough into small balls or logs, or press it into a baking dish. If you prefer cut-out shapes, chill the dough for 30 minutes first.
  5. If rolling into balls, place them on the prepared baking sheets. Use a fork to gently press down on each cookie to create a crosshatch pattern.
  6. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and very lightly golden. The centers should still look pale.
  7. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, you can add 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, though this technically makes it a four-ingredient recipe.
  • If you want a slightly crispier cookie, bake for an extra minute or two until the edges brown slightly more.
  • These cookies are naturally eggless, making them a great option for simple baking.
  • Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.

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