Amish Buttermilk Cookies Recipe Easy and Delicious Treats

Updated On: October 12, 2025

If you’ve ever tasted Amish buttermilk cookies, you know they hold a special place in the hearts of cookie lovers everywhere. These cookies boast a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, with a subtle tang from the buttermilk that perfectly balances the sweetness.

Rooted in traditional Amish baking, this recipe captures the essence of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a comforting treat. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, holiday celebration, or just craving a nostalgic homemade cookie, these Amish buttermilk cookies deliver on flavor and texture in every bite.

One of the best parts about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare without sacrificing taste. The cookies have a delicate crumb that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them an ideal snack any time of day.

In this post, I’ll walk you through every step, share helpful tips to get the perfect batch, and suggest some creative variations to make this recipe your own. Let’s dive into this delightful Amish classic!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Amish buttermilk cookies recipe stands out because it combines rich tradition with effortless baking. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

  • Soft and tender texture: The use of buttermilk results in a moist, delicate crumb that feels luxurious in every bite.
  • Simple ingredients: No fancy or hard-to-find components, just pantry staples that come together beautifully.
  • Quick to make: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute baking urges.
  • Versatile flavor: Mild sweetness and a hint of tang make these cookies perfect for customization with spices or add-ins.
  • Family-friendly: A classic recipe that kids and adults adore, ideal for sharing across generations.

Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup buttermilk
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (preferably two: one for dry, one for wet ingredients)
  • Electric mixer or hand whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
  • Cooling rack
  • Sifter or fine mesh strainer (optional, for flour)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
  2. Whisk together the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift or whisk the flour, baking soda, salt, and optional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Set aside.
  3. Cream the butter and sugars: Using an electric mixer or hand whisk, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the egg and vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
  5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk: Gradually add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk in two parts. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently after each addition just until combined—avoid overmixing.
  6. Drop cookie dough: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded spoonfuls of dough about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets.
  7. Bake: Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden but the centers remain soft.
  8. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.
  9. Enjoy! Serve with your favorite beverage or store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Tips & Variations

“For the best texture, make sure your butter is softened but not melted. Overmixing the dough can cause tough cookies, so mix just until combined.”

  • Make it spiced: Add ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or even ginger to the dry mix for a cozy fall flavor.
  • Chocolate chip version: Stir in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for a classic twist.
  • Gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of a gluten-free baking blend.
  • Buttermilk substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix ½ cup milk with 1 teaspoon lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
  • For a crunch: Sprinkle some coarse sugar or chopped nuts on top before baking.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per cookie (approx.)
Calories 120 kcal
Total Fat 6.5 g
Saturated Fat 4 g
Cholesterol 20 mg
Sodium 90 mg
Total Carbohydrates 15 g
Dietary Fiber 0.5 g
Sugars 8 g
Protein 1.2 g

Serving Suggestions

Amish buttermilk cookies are wonderfully versatile. Here are some ways to enjoy them:

  • Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon snack.
  • Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert.
  • Make a sandwich cookie by spreading cream cheese frosting or jam between two cookies.
  • Crush and use as a topping for yogurt or fruit parfaits.
  • Pack in lunch boxes for a wholesome treat kids will love.

Conclusion

Amish buttermilk cookies are a timeless treat that combine simplicity with rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Their wholesome ingredients and easy preparation make them a favorite for bakers of all skill levels.

Whether you’re new to baking or looking to add a classic cookie to your repertoire, this recipe won’t disappoint. The subtle tang of buttermilk paired with soft, buttery sweetness makes every bite delightful, evoking the warmth of home-baked goodness.

Don’t hesitate to try the variations and customize the spices or add-ins to suit your taste. And if you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out other delicious recipes such as Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping, Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious, and Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for more culinary inspiration.

Happy baking!

📖 Recipe Card: Amish Buttermilk Cookies

Description: These soft, tender cookies have a delightful tang from buttermilk and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for a comforting treat any time of day.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT12M
Total Time: PT27M

Servings: 24 cookies

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
  3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract until combined.
  5. Alternately add flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour.
  6. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
  8. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Nutrition: Calories: 160 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 22 g

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Marta K

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