Introduction
These sugar butter cookies are golden, crisp on the edges, and tender inside — perfect with tea, coffee, or as a sweet treat any time of the day. Their delicate buttery flavor and sandy texture come from a simple dough of butter, sugar, and flour.
They are a classic favorite in many countries — from the buttery Scottish shortbread to the French sablé or the Latin Pastiseta. Every bite tastes like comfort and nostalgia.
🧈 Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract (or almond extract for variation)
- 2½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
For Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
🍳 Instructions and Methods
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Add the egg and vanilla extract; beat until fully incorporated.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Shape the Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
- Flatten each ball slightly with a fork or the back of a spoon to create lines or patterns.
- Dip each in granulated sugar to coat lightly.
- Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
Step 3: Bake
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool on a wire rack.
- Once cool, you can dust with a little extra sugar if desired.
Step 4: Serve
Enjoy them warm or at room temperature. Serve with tea, coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a treat!
📜 History
Sugar butter cookies have roots in European baking traditions — especially in Scotland, where shortbread originated centuries ago as a luxurious treat for holidays and special occasions. Over time, the recipe spread across the world, taking on local variations.
In Latin America and the Mediterranean, they became known as Pastisetas or Galletas de Mantequilla, beloved for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and simple preparation. Today, they’re enjoyed everywhere — from French cafés to Moroccan bakeries.
💪 Benefits
- Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples.
- Perfectly portioned: Great for sharing or gifting.
- Long shelf life: Stays fresh for days in an airtight container.
- Comfort food: Buttery sweetness that brightens any mood.
- Customizable: Add lemon zest, cinnamon, or coconut for variety.
🧩 Formation (Structure of the Cookie)
- Outer layer: Lightly crisp and coated with sugar crystals.
- Middle layer: Buttery and tender, almost melting on the tongue.
- Flavor core: Balanced sweetness with vanilla richness.
Each cookie’s texture strikes the perfect harmony between crumbly and creamy.
❤️ Why People Love Them
- They’re buttery, sweet, and nostalgic.
- No fancy tools or skills needed — anyone can make them!
- Their golden look and sugar sparkle make them irresistible.
- They pair perfectly with coffee or milk.
- They remind people of home baking and childhood treats.
🍪 Conclusion
These sugar butter cookies are the definition of simple pleasure. With only a handful of ingredients, you get a delightful, buttery treat that melts in your mouth and fills your kitchen with warmth. Whether you call them shortbread, sablés, or pastisetas — they bring happiness in every bite.
💞 Lovers of These Cookies
This recipe is adored by:
- Cookie enthusiasts who love classic flavors.
- Home bakers who appreciate easy, reliable recipes.
- Children and families who enjoy sweet homemade snacks.
- Tea and coffee lovers who want the perfect companion biscuit.