Introduction
In a world brimming with modern desserts, there’s something undeniably comforting about the classics. Old-fashioned butter cookies, with their rich, buttery flavor and delicate crumb, have stood the test of time. When infused with a hint of fresh lemon zest, these cookies transform into a delightful treat that balances sweetness with a touch of citrusy brightness. Whether you’re reminiscing about grandma’s kitchen or seeking a simple yet elegant cookie to accompany your afternoon tea, this recipe promises to deliver. So, let’s embark on a journey to recreate these timeless delights, ensuring every bite evokes warmth and nostalgia.
Why You’ll Love Old-Fashioned Butter Cookies
This recipe marries the rich, comforting taste of traditional butter cookies with the refreshing zing of lemon zest. The result is a cookie that’s both familiar and invigorating. The buttery base provides a melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the lemon zest adds a subtle brightness that elevates the overall flavor profile. Also, perfect for various occasions—from holiday gatherings to casual afternoon snacks—these cookies are versatile and universally appealing. Moreover, the recipe is straightforward, requiring basic ingredients and minimal preparation time, making it accessible even for novice bakers. Also, the combination of simplicity, flavor, and texture ensures that these cookies will become a cherished addition to your baking repertoire.Bon Appétit
Ingredients of Old-Fashioned Butter Cookies
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- Additional sugar and lemon zest for garnish (optional)cooks.com+2ChefsResource+2Food.com+2BetterMe | Wellness Platform+2Food.com+2ChefsResource+2
Necessary Tools for Old-Fashioned Butter Cookies
- Large mixing bowl
- Hand or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Microplane or fine grater (for lemon zest)
- Spatula
- Plastic wrap
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
- Flour Alternatives: For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Citrus Variations: Replace lemon zest with orange or lime zest for a different citrus note.
- Herbal Infusion: Add finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme for an herby twist.
- Nutty Addition: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, for added texture and flavor.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg can add warmth to the cookies.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the freshly grated lemon zest.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and cornmeal.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.Food.com+1ChefsResource+1
- Chill the Dough:
- Divide the dough into two equal portions.
- Shape each portion into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or until firm.ChefsResourceFood.com
- Roll and Cut:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about ¼-inch thickness.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Sprinkle the tops of the cookies with additional sugar and lemon zest if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just turning golden brown.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 1 minute before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.Food.com
Pro Tips for Success
- Butter Consistency: Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for optimal creaming.
- Chilling Time: Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps in maintaining the shape of the cookies during baking.
- Uniform Thickness: Roll the dough evenly to ensure consistent baking.
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the cookies; they should be just golden at the edges.
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.Bon Appétit
Serving Suggestions
- Tea Time: Serve alongside a cup of Earl Grey or chamomile tea.
- Dessert Platter: Include in a selection of assorted cookies for gatherings.
- Gift Idea: Moreover, package in decorative tins or boxes for a homemade gift.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Pair with a scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet for a delightful treat.
- Holiday Treats: Also, decorate with icing or sprinkles for festive occasions.
Storing and Reheating Old-Fashioned Butter Cookies
- Storage: Place cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To refresh, warm cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 130
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 1g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
FAQs – Old-Fashioned Butter Cookies
Q1: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavor.
Q2: How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Ensure the dough is well-chilled before baking and avoid overmixing.
Q3: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Of course, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month.
Q4: What can I use if I don’t have cornmeal?
You can substitute with an equal amount of all-purpose flour, though the texture will be slightly different.
Q5: How can I enhance the lemon flavor?
Add a teaspoon of lemon extract or increase the amount of lemon zest.
Conclusion
To sum up, old-fashioned butter cookies with a hint of lemon zest are a testament to the beauty of simplicity in baking. Also, their rich, buttery base complemented by the subtle brightness of lemon makes them a versatile treat suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe offers a delightful baking experience with rewarding results. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and indulge in the timeless joy of homemade cookies.
For another irresistible cookie option, check out these Frozen Dough Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies!
