Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional
- A few drops of food coloring (gel or natural)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy using an electric mixer or by hand. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt to evenly distribute the leavening and salt.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms. If desired, divide the dough and add a few drops of food coloring to create colorful cookies, kneading the dough until the color is evenly incorporated.
- Form the dough logs: Shape the dough into one or two logs, about 2 inches in diameter, wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap. Chill the logs in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until firm. This chilling step is essential to make slicing easier and to help the cookies hold their shape while baking.
- Preheat the oven and slice: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the chilled dough logs from the fridge and unwrap. Using a sharp knife, slice the logs into ¼-inch thick rounds and place them spaced evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Bake the cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the centers tender.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Chilling the dough is crucial for clean slices and to prevent spreading during baking.
- Use room temperature butter and eggs for better mixing and texture.
- Food coloring is optional but adds a festive touch to the cookies.
- For a flavor twist, consider adding lemon zest, almond extract, or mini chocolate chips.
- Ensure slices are even thickness for uniform baking.
- These cookies can be stored for up to one week in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
