Name: Vanilla Buttercream Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 200 g unsalted butter; 100 g superfine sugar; 1 egg; 1 egg yolk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 350 g cake flour; ½ teaspoon salt; 250 g powdered sugar; 80 g unsalted butter; 25 ml milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 209 reviews

If you’re looking for a truly delightful treat that feels like a warm hug in cookie form, this Vanilla Buttercream Cookies Recipe is going to be your new best friend. With tender vanilla-infused cookies topped with the creamiest, sweetest buttercream, every bite melts in your mouth and brings a smile that just won’t quit. The combination of soft cake flour cookies and luscious vanilla buttercream frosting makes for an irresistible dessert perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply enjoying with your favorite cup of tea or coffee. This recipe is not just about baking cookies; it’s about creating a cozy moment that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A thick, flat round dough wrapped tightly in clear plastic wrap, showing its smooth, pale yellow surface with some slight cracks near the edges. The dough rests directly on a white marbled surface, and the clear plastic wrap shines faintly with light reflections across the dough. The dough is evenly pressed and slightly rounded on the corners, giving it a neat shape. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this Vanilla Buttercream Cookies Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding richness, sweetness, or that perfect texture that holds the cookie and frosting together beautifully.

Unsalted butter (200 g for cookies, 80 g for buttercream): Provides a creamy base and tender crumb for cookies, and smooth richness for the buttercream.
Superfine sugar (100 g): Dissolves quickly to keep cookies tender and sweet.
Egg (1 whole and 1 yolk): Bind the dough while adding moisture and a rich finish.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons total): Essential for that signature fragrant flavor, enhancing both cookie and buttercream.
Cake flour (350 g): Gives cookies their soft, delicate crumb without heaviness.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness, highlighting vanilla nuances.
Powdered sugar (250 g): Makes the buttercream irresistibly smooth and sweet.
Milk (25 ml): Loosens the buttercream to just the right consistency for spreading or piping.

How to Make Vanilla Buttercream Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Begin by beating the unsalted butter and superfine sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, giving your cookies that soft and tender texture we all crave. A stand mixer or hand mixer works best here for about 3 to 5 minutes on medium speed.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, beat in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is fully incorporated, as this will create a smooth, unified dough. The eggs provide structure and moisture, while the vanilla infuses the dough with that classic, comforting aroma.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour and salt. Cake flour is key to keeping the cookies tender with a fine crumb, while salt naturally balances the sweet flavors. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, folding it in gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps firm up the dough, making it easier to handle and allowing flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Step 5: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the chilled dough into small balls, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and gently flatten each ball with your palm. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Once baked, let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before adding any frosting.

Step 6: Prepare the Vanilla Buttercream

While the cookies cool, whip up the buttercream. Beat the unsalted butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar and milk, continuing to beat until the mixture is light, fluffy, and easily spreadable. Finish by blending in the vanilla extract. This buttercream is the perfect balance of sweet and creamy, complementing the cookies without overpowering them.

Step 7: Frost the Cookies

Once the cookies have cooled, spread or pipe the vanilla buttercream generously on top. You can get creative here, using a piping bag with a star tip for pretty swirls or just a simple knife for a rustic look. Let the buttercream set for a few minutes before serving to allow it to firm up slightly.

How to Serve Vanilla Buttercream Cookies Recipe

A clear glass bowl holds one thick, creamy layer of smooth, off-white frosting. The frosting's texture shows gentle swirls and soft peaks, with a few areas appearing slightly denser, giving a light richness to the overall look. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface, enhancing the simple and fresh visual of the creamy spread. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Want to add a little extra flair to your Vanilla Buttercream Cookies Recipe? Try decorating with a light dusting of powdered sugar, rainbow sprinkles for a fun twist, or a few edible pearls for an elegant touch. Fresh berries or a tiny fresh mint leaf add a burst of color and freshness that’s hard to resist.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of chai tea, hot cocoa, or even a simple glass of cold milk. If you’re looking to elevate your cookie platter, consider serving alongside fresh fruit or a light citrus sorbet – the brightness will balance the sweetness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation makes everything more special! Arrange your vanilla buttercream cookies on pretty tiered stands for a party or gift them bundled in a cellophane bag tied with a pastel ribbon. Layer them between parchment paper in a decorative tin for a charming homemade gift your friends and family will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Vanilla Buttercream Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to 3 days. For best texture, avoid stacking too many cookies on top of each other, or place parchment paper between layers to protect the delicate buttercream.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies either plain or frosted. For unfrosted cookies, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. For frosted ones, freeze flat in one layer and then stack with parchment paper between. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

While these cookies are best enjoyed fresh or at room temperature, you can gently warm them in a microwave for about 5 seconds to revive that freshly-baked warmth. Be cautious not to overheat, as it could melt the buttercream into a gooey mess!

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for cake flour, but be aware the cookies may turn out slightly denser and less tender. For a close match, you can try replacing some of the all-purpose flour with cornstarch to mimic cake flour’s softness.

How long does the buttercream last?

The vanilla buttercream will keep in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just bring it back to room temperature and give it a quick whip before spreading or piping again.

Can I color the buttercream?

Absolutely! Adding a few drops of food coloring can transform your buttercream for themed parties or holidays. Gel colors work best as they won’t alter the frosting’s consistency.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Definitely! The Vanilla Buttercream Cookies Recipe is straightforward and forgiving, making it perfect even if you’re new to baking. The steps are clear and the ingredients common, so have fun and don’t stress about perfection.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

It’s best to use unsalted butter so you can control the amount of salt in the recipe more precisely. If you only have salted butter, reduce or omit the additional salt to prevent the cookies from becoming too salty.

Final Thoughts

This Vanilla Buttercream Cookies Recipe is one of those gems you’ll want to bake over and over. Its simplicity, paired with that luscious vanilla buttercream, turns everyday moments into special occasions. Whether you’re sharing with loved ones or indulging in a quiet treat, these cookies bring pure joy with every bite. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new all-time favorite cookie!