It’s funny how some of the simplest recipes end up being the biggest hits in our families, isn’t it? I’m talking about this three-ingredient mini butter cookie recipe that, honestly, is incredibly easy but oh-so-delicious. I whipped these goodies up for a recent family gathering, and let me tell you, they vanished faster than I could blink! Everyone was raving about them, asking for the recipe and wondering how on earth I made something so delightful with just three ingredients. It’s one of those recipes that makes you feel like a star in the kitchen without putting in a ton of effort—who doesn’t love that?
And the best part? You don’t need to be a baking expert to nail these cookies. Seriously, if you can mix a few ingredients and scoop out dough with a spoon, you’re golden! Whenever I make these, I always think back to my own childhood. My mom had her go-to recipes, and somehow, those simple treats filled our home with so much warmth and happiness. Now, I’m carrying on that tradition, sharing these delightful butter cookies with my kids, who devour them just like I used to. It brings back sweet memories and helps create new ones.
These mini butter cookies are a joy to make. The dough comes together in a matter of minutes, and before you know it, you’ll have a fresh batch ready to share. Plus, they’re perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a family get-together, having a cozy coffee date, or just treating yourself to something special during the week. I love pairing them with a steaming cup of tea or coffee; it just feels like the perfect match!
So, are you ready to delight your family with some scrumptious homemade cookies? With this recipe, you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to create something that feels special. So, dust off that mixing bowl, and let’s get started on these amazing three-ingredient mini butter cookies!
How to Make Mini Butter Cookies
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Ingredients
- ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
- ⅔ cup melted butter
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
Directions
First, take a medium-sized bowl and pour in the powdered sugar. This is where the sweetness begins!
Next, melt the butter—either in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just make sure to let it cool for about five minutes before you mix it with the sugar; we don’t want to cook the sugar, just mix it!
Once your butter’s cooled down a bit, combine it with the powdered sugar and whisk until you have a smooth mixture. This is the base of your dough.
Now, it’s time to slowly add the flour. Gradually incorporate it while mixing, and soon enough, you’ll end up with a soft dough.
With a spatula, gently fold the dough, ensuring everything is combined well.
Then, scoop out rounded tablespoons of dough and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Roll them into small balls for a fun, playful shape.
Take a fork and press down on each ball to slightly flatten them—aim for about an inch in diameter.
If you’re worried about them spreading too much while baking, chill the tray of cookie balls in the fridge for about 15 minutes—it really helps!
While that’s happening, preheat your oven to 356°F. When ready, pop the cookies in and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. They should turn lightly golden around the edges. Keep in mind, they might be soft right out of the oven but will firm up nicely as they cool.
Once baked, let the cookies cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to five days, though I doubt they’ll last that long in your house!
Storing Suggestion
To keep your mini butter cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can stay deliciously soft for up to five days. If you need them to last longer, consider popping them in the fridge, where they’ll maintain their texture even longer.
Cooking Tips
If you’d like to enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or sprinkling some sea salt on top before baking. These small tweaks can really elevate the cookie experience! Also, don’t hesitate to play around with the size—make them a bit larger for a more substantial treat.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. You can also plate them with fresh fruits for a pop of color and flavor. For special occasions, adding a drizzle of melted chocolate on top can give them a fun twist!
Ingredient Substitutions
If you find yourself without confectioners’ sugar, granulated sugar can work too; just be aware that it may alter the texture slightly. For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based alternative—this will ensure the cookies remain vegan-friendly while maintaining deliciousness.
Seasonal Variations
During the fall, consider adding some pumpkin spice or cinnamon to the dough for a seasonal twist. In the spring or summer, a bit of zest from lemon or orange can brighten the flavor immensely. Change it up according to what’s fresh and in season!
Allergen Information
The primary allergens in this recipe are dairy and gluten. If anyone in your family is lactose intolerant, you can easily swap the butter for a vegan alternative. For those needing gluten-free options, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, and you’ll still end up with delicious cookies!
FAQ
How long do these cookies take to bake?
The mini butter cookies take approximately 10 to 12 minutes to bake. Keep an eye on them as they approach the end of the baking time, as every oven can vary slightly. They should appear lightly golden around the edges but may seem soft at first; they will firm up as they cool!
Can I freeze these cookies for later use?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies! Just allow them to cool completely and then store them in an airtight freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature.
What’s the best way to serve these cookies?
These mini butter cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they’re also delightful alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee. For a little extra flair, you can serve them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fun dessert!
Can I add chocolate chips to the cookie dough?
Absolutely! If you love chocolate, feel free to fold in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the dough before baking. This will add a delicious chocolatey depth to the cookies and is always a hit with kids and adults alike.
How can I make these cookies lighter?
If you’re aiming for a lighter version of these cookies, consider using light butter or a butter substitute with fewer calories. You could also try reducing the sugar slightly or adding some ground oats to incorporate more fiber without changing the taste too much.
Why did my cookies spread too much while baking?
Cookies can spread too much if the dough is too warm or if you didn’t chill the dough balls before baking. Next time, try chilling your dough for longer or adding a bit more flour to help maintain their shape. Keeping them in the fridge for at least 15 minutes before baking can also make a big difference!
3 Ingredient Mini Butter Cookies
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
- 2/3 cup melted butter
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Add the powdered sugar to a medium bowl.
- Melt the butter using the microwave or stovetop, then let it cool for about 5 minutes before mixing it with the sugar.
- Whisk until smooth, then gradually incorporate the flour into the mixture.
- Use a spatula to gently fold the flour, creating a soft dough.
- Scoop slightly heaping teaspoons of dough and place them on a parchment-lined baking tray, forming small balls.
- Take a fork and lightly press down on each ball to flatten to about 1 inch round.
- If desired, chill the tray of dough balls in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before baking.
- Preheat the oven to 356°F and bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
