When it comes to baking, sometimes the simplest recipes are the ones that leave the biggest impression. These 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies are a perfect example. With just butter, powdered sugar, and flour, you can create cookies that are buttery, tender, and absolutely irresistible. No fancy tools, no complicated steps, just pure baking joy that anyone—even beginners—can master.
I first discovered this recipe on a busy holiday afternoon when I needed something quick yet delicious to serve unexpected guests. With only three ingredients in my pantry, I pulled these cookies together in under 30 minutes. They turned out so good that my family has been requesting them ever since. These cookies are a lifesaver when you want to satisfy a sweet craving without spending hours in the kitchen, and they are perfect for gifting, parties, or pairing with a warm cup of tea.
Why You’ll Love 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies
- Minimal ingredients – Just three pantry staples you probably already have.
- Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Beginner-friendly – Foolproof method, no special baking skills required.
- Customizable – Add chocolate chips, nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for variety.
- Perfect for any occasion – Great for holidays, lunchbox treats, or simple everyday snacking.
- Melt-in-your-mouth texture – Powdered sugar gives them a smooth, delicate crumb.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup butter, softened and slightly melted – Softened butter blends easily and ensures a rich, buttery flavor.
- 1 cup powdered sugar – Creates a smooth texture and a melt-in-your-mouth sweetness.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and balance to the cookies.
Optional add-ins for variety:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for extra flavor.
- A pinch of salt to balance sweetness.
- ½ cup chocolate chips or sprinkles for a fun twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. - Cream butter and sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth, creamy, and well incorporated. This forms the base of your dough. - Incorporate the flour
Gradually add the flour to the butter-sugar mixture, stirring gently after each addition. Mix until a soft dough forms. Don’t overmix, as this can make the cookies tough. - Shape the cookies
Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 tablespoon each. Place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space for slight spreading. - Flatten the dough
Using the bottom of a glass or your fingers, gently flatten each ball. For a decorative touch, press with a fork to create crisscross patterns. - Bake to perfection
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as they can brown quickly. - Cool before serving
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set properly.
Serving and Storage Tips
These butter cookies are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them plain, dip them in chocolate, or dust with extra powdered sugar for an elegant finish. They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or hot cocoa and are also excellent for holiday cookie platters.
Storage:
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 1 week for extra freshness.
- Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Make-ahead tip: You can prepare the dough in advance, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.
Helpful Notes
- Chilling the dough – If your dough feels too soft, chill it for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
- Powdered sugar vs. granulated sugar – Powdered sugar gives these cookies their signature melt-in-your-mouth texture. Substituting with granulated sugar will make them denser.
- Butter quality matters – Use real, high-quality butter for the best flavor.
- Custom shapes – Roll dough into logs, chill, and slice into rounds for uniform cookies. You can also use cookie cutters for fun shapes.
- Flavor variations – Add a teaspoon of lemon zest, almond extract, or cinnamon for a subtle twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be slightly different, but they will still be delicious. - Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but omit any added salt to avoid an overly salty flavor. - Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
Not always, but chilling helps the cookies hold their shape better and results in a slightly thicker cookie. - Can I frost or decorate these cookies?
Absolutely. They’re wonderful with a drizzle of chocolate, royal icing, or even dipped halfway in melted white chocolate and sprinkles. - How many cookies does this recipe make?
About 24 cookies, depending on the size of your dough balls.
Final Thoughts
These 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies prove that sometimes less really is more. With only butter, powdered sugar, and flour, you can create a batch of cookies that’s rich, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. I’ve tested this recipe countless times, and it always delivers — whether I’m baking for family, friends, or just myself.
What I love most is how customizable they are. You can keep them simple and classic or dress them up with chocolate, nuts, or spices. Either way, they never last long once they hit the table. So next time you’re craving something sweet but short on time or ingredients, remember this recipe — it’s the perfect quick fix for cookie lovers everywhere. Bake a batch, share with loved ones, and savor the joy of homemade simplicity.
3-Ingredient Butter Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter softened and slightly melted
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter and powdered sugar. Mix until creamy and smooth.
- Gradually add flour, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Roll dough into small balls and place on prepared baking sheet.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your fingers.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Chill dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
- Use powdered sugar (not granulated) for the best melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Customize with vanilla extract, lemon zest, or sprinkles for variety.
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