These 3-ingredient cookies are the perfect combination of simplicity and decadence. With just butter, sugar, and flour, they come together quickly and deliver a tender, buttery texture that literally melts in your mouth. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, this recipe is fail-proof and incredibly versatile, making it a favorite for any occasion.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Ingredients
- Flour: 2 ¼ cups (280 g)
- Sugar: ¼ cup (60 g)
- Butter: 1 cup (200 g, softened)
Directions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until smooth and fluffy using a hand mixer or whisk.
- Step 3: Gradually add the flour in small increments, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to ensure tender cookies.
- Step 4: Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, or shape them as desired. Arrange them on the prepared tray, leaving at least 1 inch of space between each cookie.
- Step 5: Optionally, flatten the tops slightly with a fork or use a cookie stamp for decorative patterns.
- Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges turn slightly golden.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful snack.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a sweet treat.
- Crumble over yogurt or oatmeal for a crunchy topping.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate or caramel for extra indulgence.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream and berries on top for a festive dessert.
Cooking Tips
- Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor.
- Ensure the butter is softened, not melted, to achieve the right dough consistency.
- Chill the dough for 15–20 minutes if it becomes too soft to handle.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Always use a kitchen scale for precise measurements for consistent results.
Nutritional Benefits
- Butter provides essential fats and vitamin A, supporting overall health.
- Sugar offers quick energy boosts, ideal for those with active lifestyles.
- Flour contributes carbohydrates, providing sustained energy for the day.
While these cookies are indulgent, moderation ensures they can fit into a balanced diet.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour substitute.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap butter for plant-based margarine or coconut oil for a vegan-friendly version.
- Nut-Free: This recipe is naturally free from nuts.
Nutritional Facts (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Sugar: 3 g
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Refrigerator: Extend freshness by storing in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze the cookies in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and Quick: Perfect for beginners, with just three pantry staples.
- Customizable: Add flavors like vanilla, lemon zest, or spices to make them your own.
- Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: Buttery, tender cookies that are irresistibly good.
- Versatile: Suitable for any occasion, from tea time to holiday parties.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, inexpensive ingredients.
Conclusion
These 3-ingredient cookies prove that simplicity can lead to greatness. With their buttery flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they’re bound to become a household favorite. Whether you enjoy them plain or with added flavors, they offer the perfect indulgence for any occasion. Plus, they’re quick to make and versatile enough to suit a range of dietary preferences.
Make a batch today and treat yourself to the joy of effortless baking. These cookies are proof that sometimes, less really is more!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use salted butter? Yes, but reduce the sugar slightly to balance the flavor.
- Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! Refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
- What flour is best for these cookies? All-purpose flour works best, but you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free options.
- How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much? Chill the dough before baking if it’s too soft.
- Can I add other flavors? Yes, try adding vanilla extract, almond extract, or citrus zest for variation.
- Can I make these cookies vegan? Swap butter for vegan margarine or coconut oil.
- Why are my cookies crumbly? Overmixing or using too much flour can make them dry. Measure carefully!
- Can I decorate these cookies? Yes, sprinkle powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate for added flair.
- Can I use powdered sugar instead of granulated? Yes, powdered sugar creates a smoother dough and a softer texture.
- What’s the best way to reheat these cookies? Bake in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 2–3 minutes to refresh their texture.