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Easy Old-Fashioned German Butter Cookies

German Butter Cookies

These classic German butter cookies are tender, lightly sweet, and perfect with coffee. Easy to bake, they have a crisp edge and a rich buttery flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: German
Calories: 100
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened Use a good quality butter
  • 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
  • 1 large Egg Room temperature helps
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Almond extract can be used for a holiday vibe
  • 2 cups All purpose flour
  • 1 pinch Salt
  • 1-2 teaspoons Milk (optional) If the dough is too stiff to pipe

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until smooth.
  3. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
  4. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  5. If the dough is too stiff, add 1 to 2 teaspoons of milk.
  6. Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
Baking
  1. Pipe the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in your desired shapes (swirls, S shapes, or cutouts).
  2. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are light golden.

Notes

Cookies can be made ahead of time. Chill dough for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze shaped unbaked cookies for later use. Decorate with chocolate dip, sugar sparkle, or jam dots for added flair.