Welcome to our delightful cookie corner! Today, we’re sharing a recipe for Butternut Cookies, a classic treat known for their buttery, melt-in-the-mouth texture and delightful nutty crunch. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy afternoon with a cup of tea or a festive holiday gathering. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- Butter Bliss: 1 cup (or 2 sticks) of soft unsalted butter. The backbone of our cookie and the reason behind its divine texture.
- Powdered Perfection: 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. This not only sweetens our cookie but ensures that delicate, melt-in-the-mouth feel.
- Flour Foundation: 2 cups of all-purpose flour. This forms the base of our cookie, giving it structure and form.
- Nutty Delight: 1 cup of finely chopped walnuts. They add a delightful crunch and depth of flavor.
- Vanilla Vibe: 1 tsp of vanilla extract. This imparts a classic, aromatic essence to our cookie.
- Subtle Seasoning: A pinch of salt. This little touch heightens all other flavors.
- Rolling Glory: Additional powdered sugar for rolling. This gives our cookies their iconic snowy appearance.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the soft unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt.
- Mix the Dough: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, beating on low speed until just combined.
- Add Walnuts: Fold in the finely chopped walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 2: Shape the Cookies
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Form the Cookies: Using your hands, roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies should still be pale on top.
- Cool Slightly: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. They will be delicate when hot, so handle with care.
Step 4: Roll in Powdered Sugar
- Coat the Cookies: While the cookies are still warm, roll them in additional powdered sugar until fully coated. This gives them their signature snowy appearance.
- Cool Completely: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. For an extra snowy look, you can roll them in powdered sugar a second time once they are fully cooled.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Soft Butter: Ensure the butter is at room temperature before starting. This helps achieve the creamy texture when beating with the sugar.
- Nuts: Finely chop the walnuts to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. You can also toast the walnuts lightly for an enhanced flavor.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Variations
Pecan Butternut Cookies
Substitute the walnuts with pecans for a different nutty flavor. Pecans provide a slightly sweeter and buttery taste.
Almond Butternut Cookies
Replace the walnuts with finely chopped almonds and add a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla for a delightful almond flavor.
Chocolate Chip Butternut Cookies
Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the dough along with the walnuts for a chocolatey twist.
Citrus Butternut Cookies
Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor that pairs wonderfully with the nuts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter. If you do, omit the additional pinch of salt from the recipe.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking the cookies.
What if I don’t have powdered sugar for rolling?
You can use granulated sugar instead, but the texture will be different. Powdered sugar gives the cookies their classic melt-in-the-mouth finish.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
These Butternut Cookies are a delightful treat that combines a buttery, melt-in-the-mouth texture with the rich flavor of walnuts. Perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy baking and sharing these delicious cookies!
