Butternut Cookies

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Introduction

Butternut cookies are classic, comforting treats known for their tender crumb and rich butter flavor. Traditionally made with butter and finely chopped nuts (often walnuts or pecans), these cookies melt in your mouth and fill the kitchen with a warm, bakery-style aroma. They’re simple, elegant, and loved across generations.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

  • 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts)

Optional Coating

  • ½ cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
  • Extra chopped nuts for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a large bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture.
  5. Fold in the finely chopped nuts.

Step 2: Chill

  • Cover the dough and refrigerate for 30–45 minutes.
    This helps the cookies hold their shape and improves flavor.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

  1. Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).
  2. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  3. Roll dough into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each).
  4. Place cookies 5 cm apart.
  5. Gently press extra chopped nuts on top if desired.

Step 4: Bake

  • Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden.
  • Do not overbake; the tops should remain pale.

Step 5: Finish

  • Cool cookies slightly, then roll in powdered sugar if using.
  • Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Methods & Tips

  • Extra soft texture: Use powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar.
  • Crispier edges: Bake 1–2 minutes longer.
  • Nut-free option: Omit nuts and add ½ teaspoon almond extract for flavor.
  • Holiday version: Dust twice with powdered sugar like snowball cookies.

History

Butternut cookies come from traditional European butter-cookie recipes, adapted in American kitchens where nuts became a common addition. They were often baked for holidays, weddings, and afternoon tea, valued for their simplicity and rich taste.

Benefits

  • Rich in healthy fats from nuts
  • Quick and easy to prepare
  • No fancy equipment required
  • Freezer-friendly dough

Formation & Texture

  • Outside: Lightly crisp base
  • Inside: Soft, tender, and buttery
  • Flavor: Mild sweetness with nutty warmth

Nutrition (Approximate per cookie)

  • Calories: 120
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Sugar: 4 g

Why Everyone Loves These Cookies

  • Melt-in-your-mouth texture
  • Perfect balance of butter and nuts
  • Elegant yet simple
  • Ideal for gifting and gatherings

Conclusion

Butternut cookies are timeless, cozy, and irresistibly delicious. Whether served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or filled with nuts, they bring comfort and joy in every bite.

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