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The Ultimate Melt-In-Your-Mouth Classic Butter Cookies (Danish Style)

A stack and pile of freshly baked, golden butter cookies generously coated in sparkling sugar crystals.

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Make rich, buttery cookies that truly melt in your mouth. This easy recipe delivers the classic, tender texture of Danish butter cookies using simple baking essentials.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 large egg yolk

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the vanilla extract and salt until combined. Mix in the egg yolk.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and cornstarch.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined into a soft dough. Do not overmix.
  5. Shape the dough into logs or use a cookie press fitted with your desired shape (like a star tip for classic Danish cookies).
  6. Wrap the dough logs tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until firm enough to slice or press.
  7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  8. Slice chilled logs into 1/4-inch thick rounds, or press the dough through the cookie press onto the prepared sheets.
  9. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The centers should remain pale.
  10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. Once cool, dust lightly with extra powdered sugar for presentation.

Notes

  • For the best melt-in-your-mouth texture, make sure your butter is truly softened, not melted.
  • Chilling the dough is essential for holding the shape during baking.
  • For a holiday twist, add 1/2 teaspoon almond extract with the vanilla for a richer flavor profile.
  • These cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

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