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Crispy German Butter Cookies

These Deliciously Crispy German Butter Cookies are buttery and crisp, offering a perfect treat with every bite. Easy to make and wonderfully festive!
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: German
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 stick unsalted butter, at room temperature Ensure it's softened.
  • 1 stick margarine, at room temperature Ensure it's softened.
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar For sweetness.
  • 2 large eggs Room temperature.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds flavor.
  • a pinch salt Enhances flavor.
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Sifted before use.
  • 1 heaping teaspoon baking powder For leavening.
  • Gel food coloring, optional Use for coloring the dough.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them with butter.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened unsalted butter and margarine until creamy and smooth.
  3. Gradually add 3/4 cup of sugar, mixing until light and fluffy to create a tender crumb.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
  5. Sift together 3 1/2 cups of flour and a heaping teaspoon of baking powder. Gently fold this into the wet ingredients, avoiding overmixing.
  6. If desired, divide the dough and mix in gel food coloring. Shape into a ball, wrap in plastic, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Baking
  1. Roll the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to shape or slice into rounds.
  2. Place cookies onto baking sheets evenly. Optionally, brush the tops with egg white or glaze for a sweet finish.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes until golden around the edges.
  4. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Notes

Serve cookies with coffee, hot chocolate, or tea. They last for about a week in an airtight container or freeze for up to three months. Reheat for 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) for best results.