Salted Butter Cookie Recipe for Perfectly Soft Treats

There’s something irresistibly comforting about the rich, buttery flavor of a classic salted butter cookie. These cookies are the perfect balance of sweet and salty, with a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.

Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a cozy afternoon snack, or just because, salted butter cookies bring a touch of elegance and nostalgia to any occasion. In this post, I’ll walk you through an easy-to-follow recipe that guarantees soft, flavorful cookies every time.

With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll have a batch of golden, melt-in-your-mouth treats ready to enjoy.

From the precise measurements to tips on how to achieve the perfect texture, this recipe is tailored for both beginners and seasoned bakers. So, grab your mixing bowl and get ready to fill your kitchen with the warm aroma of homemade cookies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salted butter cookie recipe stands out because it uses simple, high-quality ingredients that create a rich, buttery cookie with just the right hint of sea salt. The dough is easy to work with, meaning less frustration and more baking fun.

Plus, these cookies keep well, so you can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. The base cookie is delicious on its own but also welcomes a variety of add-ins like chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or a drizzle of caramel.

The balance of sweetness and saltiness makes these cookies uniquely satisfying, pleasing both sweet tooth and savory snack lovers alike.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (50g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt, plus extra for sprinkling

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (one large and one medium)
• Electric mixer or stand mixer with paddle attachment
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Cooling racks
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Cream the butter and sugars. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract. Beat in the egg and vanilla until fully combined.
4. Combine dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of flaky sea salt.
5. Mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender.
6. Scoop the dough. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Gently flatten each ball with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass.
7. Sprinkle with extra sea salt. Lightly sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie to enhance the sweet and salty contrast.
8. Bake the cookies. Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.
9. Cool. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Enjoy! Serve your salted butter cookies with a glass of milk, tea, or coffee for a delightful treat.

Tips & Variations

“For the best flavor, use high-quality unsalted butter and flaky sea salt. Avoid using table salt as it can be too harsh and overpower the cookie’s delicate sweetness.”

• Chill the dough: If your kitchen is warm or your butter softens too much, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
• Add chocolate chips: Mix in 1 cup of semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips for a classic twist.
• Try nuts: Fold in 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Orange zest: Add 1 teaspoon of finely grated orange zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy note.
• Make sandwich cookies: Spread your favorite jam or salted caramel between two cookies for a decadent treat.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Salted butter cookies are incredibly versatile. Serve them alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.

For a festive touch, pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

They also make delightful gifts — package them in a pretty tin or cellophane bag tied with a ribbon for birthdays, holidays, or just because. The subtle saltiness complements fruit preserves, cheeses (like brie or aged cheddar), and even a glass of dessert wine.

Conclusion

Making salted butter cookies from scratch is a rewarding experience that yields delicious results every time. This recipe is straightforward yet yields cookies with a rich buttery flavor enhanced by the perfect touch of sea salt.

They’re soft, tender, and wonderfully satisfying — the kind of cookie that keeps you coming back for just one more.

Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, these cookies are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Try experimenting with the variations, and don’t forget to share your creations with family and friends.

Happy baking!

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