Wisconsin-style Butter Cookies

Ingredients

While the original Spanish polvorón is typically made with lard, the Wisconsin-style Butter Cookies have been adapted to incorporate the rich and creamy butter that is synonymous with the cuisine of Wisconsin. This substitution adds a distinct flavor and richness to the cookies, making them a true representation of the butter-centric culinary culture of Wisconsin. We alse have the original recipe for Polvorón, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 11g, 4g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. 3.
   Add the vanilla extract and salt to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the flour to the mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. 5.
   Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. 6.
   Gently press down on each ball with the back of a fork to create a crisscross pattern.
7. 7.
   Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges.
8. 8.
   Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
9. 9.
   Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. 10.
    Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar.
11. 11.
    Serve and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Butter — Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature before creaming it with the sugar. This will ensure a smooth and creamy texture in the cookies.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra touch of flavor, you can add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter cookie, you can increase the amount of granulated sugar to 3/4 cup.
• To achieve a more pronounced vanilla flavor, use vanilla bean paste instead of vanilla extract.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and texture.
• These cookies make a wonderful homemade gift. Package them in a decorative tin or box for a thoughtful present.

Serving advice

Serve these Wisconsin-style Butter Cookies with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a delightful treat. They are perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet ending to a meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cookies on a platter or a decorative plate, and sprinkle some additional powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch. You can also place a small butter pat next to the cookies as a nod to the butter-centric cuisine of Wisconsin.