Butternut Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly balances the rich flavors of butter and walnuts with a touch of sweetness. These cookies are simple to make and have a melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet indulgence, these Butternut Cookies are sure to please. Let’s dive into the recipe and start baking!

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) of soft unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup of powdered sugar
• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of finely chopped walnuts
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Additional powdered sugar for rolling

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

1. In a mixing bowl, cream together the soft unsalted butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add the Flavorings

1. Add the vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
2. Fold in the finely chopped walnuts and a pinch of salt, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

1. Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown around the edges.
2. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Coat the Cookies

1. Once the cookies are completely cooled, roll them in additional powdered sugar to coat them evenly. This will give them a beautiful finish and add extra sweetness.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

1. Arrange the Butternut Cookies on a serving platter and enjoy them with a glass of milk, a cup of tea, or your favorite hot beverage.

Cook Notes and Variations

• Nut-Free Option: If you have a nut allergy or prefer not to use walnuts, you can omit them from the recipe or substitute them with chopped pecans or almonds.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or maple, to add unique flavors to your cookies.
• Storage: Store the Butternut Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? A: While unsalted butter is typically preferred in baking to control the salt content, you can use salted butter in this recipe and adjust the added salt accordingly.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Let the dough come to room temperature before shaping and baking the cookies.

Q: Can I substitute the powdered sugar with granulated sugar? A: Powdered sugar is preferred in this recipe for its fine texture, but you can use granulated sugar if powdered sugar is not available. Keep in mind that the texture of the cookies may be slightly different.

Q: Can I add chocolate chips to the cookies? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, raisins, or dried cranberries to the cookie dough for extra flavor and texture.

Enjoy the delightful flavors of butter and walnuts in every bite with these Butternut Cookies. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday gathering, a special occasion, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone. So gather your ingredients and start baking a batch of these irresistible treats today!