Basic Cookies That Never Fail
Basic Cookies That Never Fail
Easy Homemade Basic Cookie Recipe for Everyone
You can make delicious basic cookies with this recipe! Based on my experience of making these dozens of times, I’ve included tips for guaranteed success. It’s perfect for baking with kids and pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea.
Basic Cookie Dough- 250g Cake flour (or All-purpose flour)
- 100g Unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 Large egg, room temperature
- 85g Granulated sugar
- 2g Baking powder (approx. 1/2 tsp)
- 2g Salt (approx. 1/4 tsp)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Start by softening the unsalted butter. Make sure it’s at room temperature – not melted, just pliable. Cream it in a bowl using a whisk or spatula until smooth. Proper butter temperature is key to preventing the dough from separating later.
Step 2
Gradually add the granulated sugar to the softened butter, dividing it into 2-3 additions. Mix well after each addition. Creaming the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, with a slightly increased volume and paler, ivory color, will yield the best texture.
Step 3
In a separate small bowl, lightly beat the room-temperature egg until well combined. Add the beaten egg to the butter-sugar mixture in three installments, mixing thoroughly after each addition. If the mixture starts to look curdled or separated, add a tiny bit of the sifted dry ingredients to help it emulsify.
Step 4
Prepare the dry ingredients by sifting together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting them 2-3 times helps to aerate the flour and remove any lumps, leading to a lighter, crispier cookie.
Step 5
Add all the sifted dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Using a spatula, gently fold the ingredients together using a ‘figure 8′ or ’11’ motion until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten and make your cookies tough.
Step 6
Once the dough comes together into a cohesive ball, flatten it slightly and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a resealable bag. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes. This resting period allows the butter to firm up again, making the dough easier to handle and improving the cookie’s texture.
Step 7
Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator. Place it between two sheets of parchment paper or silicone baking mats and roll it out evenly to a thickness of about 5-6mm (approximately 1/4 inch). Consistent thickness is important for even baking.
Step 8
Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the rolled-out dough. Have fun with different designs, especially if baking with children! Place the cut-out cookies onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each cookie as they will spread slightly during baking.
Step 9
Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C (340°F) for approximately 13 minutes. Baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them. The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden brown. Remove them promptly if you notice any signs of burning.
Step 10
Your delicious basic cookies are ready! Let them cool on a wire rack completely. They will become crispier as they cool. Enjoy your homemade treats! ^^
