German Butter Cookies

German Butter Cookies always remind me of the first time I baked with my grandmother when I was barely tall enough to see over the counter because she didn’t use a mixer just a wooden spoon and her instinct for what made dough feel “just right.” We shaped the cookies by hand and pressed them gently with a fork and when they came out of the oven they were golden sweet and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Ever since then these cookies have become a staple in my holiday baking lineup because they’re simple to make yet full of buttery charm. With just a few basic ingredients they’re crisp at the edges tender in the center and perfect for dipping in coffee or gifting in tins and they always taste like comfort and home.

Ingredients :

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Unsalted butter – The heart of the cookie providing richness and that melt-in-your-mouth texture
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens the dough while keeping it silky and smooth
• Egg yolks – Help bind the dough and make the cookies tender
• Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and classic flavor
• All-purpose flour – Forms the structure and gives the cookies their delicate bite
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the butter flavor
• Optional: extra powdered sugar for dusting – Gives them that traditional festive finish

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl – To cream the butter and mix the dough
• Electric mixer or whisk – Helps beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient portions
• Fork or cookie stamp – To create the signature pattern on top
• Baking sheet – For baking the cookies evenly
• Parchment paper or silicone mat – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier

Instructions

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

I start by beating the softened butter with powdered sugar until it’s creamy and smooth. This takes about 2–3 minutes and creates a light base for the cookies.

Step 2: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla

Next, I add the egg yolks and vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated. This gives the dough a rich color and helps it come together.

Step 3: Mix in the Dry Ingredients

I gradually add in the flour and a pinch of salt and mix until a soft dough forms. The dough should be soft but not sticky if needed, I chill it briefly to make it easier to handle.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, I portion the dough into small balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. Then I gently press each one with a fork to create a crosshatch pattern.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

I bake the cookies at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. I let them cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 6: Dust and Serve

Once the cookies are cool, I dust them lightly with powdered sugar for that classic German touch. Then I arrange them on a plate or store them in a cookie tin.

Tips

Don’t overbake these cookies are best when they’re just lightly golden around the edges

You can freeze the dough in advance and bake fresh batches as needed

Try adding a hint of lemon zest or almond extract for a different twist

Store in an airtight container for up to a week they also freeze beautifully

Ways to Serve

With afternoon tea or coffee as a light sweet treat

On holiday cookie platters alongside other classics

Wrapped in parchment for homemade edible gifts

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make German Butter Cookies ahead of time?

Yes! They store well in a tin or airtight container for several days and also freeze beautifully.

Why do German Butter Cookies use powdered sugar instead of granulated?

Powdered sugar creates a softer, melt-in-your-mouth texture which is key to these cookies.

Can I use salted butter for German Butter Cookies?

You can, just reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to keep the flavor balanced.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you bake a batch of these German Butter Cookies and fall in love with their simple, timeless flavor. They’re the kind of cookies that bring people together and make every moment feel just a bit more special. Let me know how yours turn out—I’d love to hear!

Happy Cooking!

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