Danish Butter Cookies

Ingredients

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat: 7g (4g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 13g (6g sugars)
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 0.3g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. 2.
   Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
4. 4.
   Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star-shaped tip or use a cookie press with desired shapes.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. 6.
   Pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
7. 7.
   Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn golden brown.
8. 8.
   Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Butter — Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature for easier creaming with the sugar.
• Eggs — Use large eggs at room temperature for better incorporation into the dough.
• All-purpose flour — Measure the flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife.

Tips & Tricks

• For a festive touch, sprinkle the cookies with colored sugar or chopped nuts before baking.
• If you don't have a piping bag or cookie press, you can roll the dough into small balls and flatten them with a fork.
• To add a citrusy twist, zest a lemon or orange and mix it into the dough before shaping the cookies.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and crispness.
• These cookies make wonderful gifts. Package them in a decorative tin or box for a thoughtful present.

Serving advice

Serve Danish Butter Cookies on a platter or in a cookie jar for guests to enjoy at parties or gatherings. They are also perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet treat alongside a warm cup of coffee.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cookies in a visually appealing pattern on a serving tray. Consider adding a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.