Imagine a cookie so delicate, so buttery, that it practically dissolves on your tongue the moment it touches your lips. Get ready to transport your taste buds to the cozy kitchens of Norway with this irresistible butter cookie recipe that has been secretly passed down through generations. These aren't just any ordinary cookies – they're a culinary experience that will make you fall in love with Scandinavian baking in just one bite!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Norwegian
Serves: 30 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Chopped nuts for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1/2 cup of sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon of salt to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the mixture, mixing on low speed until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
- Once the dough is formed, use your hands to shape it into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Gently press down on each dough ball with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass to flatten them slightly. This will help them bake evenly.
- If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts on top of each cookie for added flavor and texture. You can use walnuts, pecans, or almonds based on your preference.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy your delicious Stacy's Norwegian Butter Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted. Room temperature butter creates the perfect creamy texture.
- Don't Overwork the Dough: Mix just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can make your cookies tough and dense.
- Size Consistency is Key: Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to ensure uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
- Nut Topping Tricks: Gently press chopped nuts into the cookie before baking to help them stick and create a beautiful, rustic look.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let cookies cool completely on a wire rack to develop their signature crisp yet tender texture.
- Storage Secret: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for up to a month to maintain freshness.
- Serving Suggestion: These cookies are perfect with a cup of strong coffee or as a delightful after-dinner treat that will impress any guest!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
