3-Ingredient Butter Cookies – The Easiest Cookies You’ll Ever Make! 🍪💛
Before we dive into all the delicious details — I just want to say THANK YOU. Whether you’ve been baking alongside me for a while or this is your first visit, I’m so glad you’re here. You’re the reason I get to share cozy, comforting recipes from my kitchen to yours… and this one is extra special.
Because sometimes, simplicity really is sweet perfection. These 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies are melt-in-your-mouth magic. No eggs. No baking soda. No stress. Just three pantry staples, one bowl, and about 20 minutes from start to finish.
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Why These Butter Cookies Deserve a Spot in Your Recipe Box
I promised you simple — and here’s proof. These cookies are:
Incredibly easy – No chilling, no mixers, no fuss.
Tender and buttery – The kind that just melts on your tongue.
Perfect for any occasion – Holidays, tea time, or a sweet weekday treat.
Customizable – Add a splash of vanilla, citrus zest, or even dip in chocolate!
What Do They Taste Like?
These cookies are like a warm hug in cookie form. Soft yet crisp around the edges, lightly sweet, and oh-so-buttery. They’re not overly rich — just the right balance of flavor and texture.
If shortbread and sugar cookies had a baby… this would be it.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll only need three things — chances are, you already have them on hand!
1 cup butter – Softened and slightly melted (salted or unsalted both work!)
1 cup powdered sugar – For a tender crumb and light sweetness
2 cups all-purpose flour – Regular flour is all you need
✨ Optional additions:
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt (if using unsalted butter)
Zest of lemon or orange for a citrus twist
Sprinkle of sanding sugar for sparkle
🧰 Tools You’ll Need
Large mixing bowl
Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
Measuring cups
Baking sheets
Parchment paper
Fork or glass (for flattening)
👩🍳 How to Make 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft, pliable dough forms.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and space them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten gently with the back of a fork or the bottom of a glass to create a pattern.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just barely golden. Let cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
🧁 What to Serve With These Cookies
These delicate butter cookies are perfect alongside:
A hot cup of tea or coffee
Fresh berries or whipped cream
A scoop of vanilla ice cream
Dipped halfway in melted chocolate for an elegant treat
💡 Tips for Perfect Butter Cookies
Use real butter for the best flavor — margarine won’t give you the same results.
Don’t overbake! They should be pale with just a hint of gold at the edges.
Add a pinch of salt if your butter is unsalted — it enhances the flavor beautifully.
Want a firmer dough? Chill for 10 minutes before shaping if your kitchen is warm.
🧊 Storage Instructions
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months. Just thaw at room temp.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes! Roll it into a log, wrap in plastic, and freeze. When ready to bake, slice & bake straight from frozen (add 1–2 minutes to bake time).
Can I use granulated sugar instead of powdered?
You can, but the texture will be slightly different — more crisp, less tender. Stick with powdered sugar for that classic melt-in-your-mouth feel.
Do these spread in the oven?
Not much! That’s why flattening them helps give them their final shape and appearance.
🧡 In Conclusion
There’s something so joyful about baking cookies from scratch — especially when the recipe is this ridiculously easy. These 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies are proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or fancy tools to create something truly special.
Whether you bake them for holiday tins, afternoon tea, or just because it’s Tuesday, I hope you love them as much as I do.
🍪 Craving More Cookie Magic?
Try these next:
Vanilla Almond Shortbread
Chewy Brown Sugar Cookies
Chocolate Dipped Coconut Macaroons
3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies (Gluten-Free!)
📸 Share Your Bake!
Did you try this recipe? I’d love to see your cookies!
Leave a comment below 📝
Tag me on Pinterest or Instagram @mmmrecipes
Use the hashtag #MmmButterCookies to be featured!
📊 Nutritional Info (Per Cookie – Approximate)
Calories: 120
Fat: 7g
Carbs: 13g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 55mg
Thanks for baking with me today — I hope your kitchen smells as amazing as mine did! Simple, sweet, and seriously satisfying. That’s what these cookies are all about. 🧡
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