Homemade Vanilla Cookies Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves the classic taste of vanilla cookies. They are simple to make, and the ingredients are likely already in your pantry. The combination of butter, vanilla, and icing sugar creates a soft and tender cookie that melts in your mouth. Plus, the method is straightforward, and you can even adjust the dough's texture to suit your preferences. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced one, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup self-raising flour

• ½ cup unsalted butter

• ½ cup icing sugar

• 3 tablespoon cornflour

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoon milk

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, add the butter, vanilla, and icing sugar. Mix together until the mixture is light and pale.

2. Add the flour, cornflour, and salt. Mix until the dough forms. If the dough is too crumbly, add a little bit of milk to bring it together. If it is too sticky, add a little bit of flour to make it easier to handle.

3. Using a tablespoon or an ice cream scoop, scoop out the dough and roll each piece into a ball.

4. Place the dough balls on a lined baking tray. Use a fork to press down on each dough piece and create patterns on the surface.

5. Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 170°C (338°F) for 15-18 minutes, or until they are slightly golden brown.

6. Allow the cookies to cool completely before enjoying them.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12-15 cookies, depending on the size of each dough ball.

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Bake time: 15-18 minutes

• Cooling time: 10-15 minutes

Variations

• Add chocolate chips: For a chocolatey twist, mix in some chocolate chips or chunks to the dough before baking.

• Glazed cookies: Drizzle a simple glaze (made from powdered sugar and milk) over the cooled cookies for a sweet finish.

• Add nuts: Chopped nuts like almonds or pecans can be added for a bit of crunch and extra flavor.

• Spiced vanilla cookies: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced version of these cookies.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store these vanilla cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

• Freezing: You can also freeze the baked cookies. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: To enjoy the cookies warm, simply microwave them for a few seconds or warm them up in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of self-raising flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but you will need to add a teaspoon of baking powder for the cookies to rise.

2. Can I make these cookies dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free butter or margarine, and the milk with a plant-based milk like almond or soy.

3. What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?

If your dough is crumbly, simply add a little more milk (1 teaspoon at a time) until it holds together.

4. Can I use a stand mixer for mixing the dough?

Yes, you can use a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment to mix the dough. Start on low speed to prevent flour from flying everywhere.

5. How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies should be slightly golden brown around the edges. They will also firm up a bit once they cool.

6. Can I add frosting to these cookies?

Yes, you can top the cookies with your favorite frosting or icing for extra sweetness.

7. Why are my cookies too soft?

If the cookies are too soft, they may need a few extra minutes in the oven. Ensure that your oven is preheated to the right temperature, and don't forget to let the cookies cool completely before eating.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe if you're expecting more guests or want to make a larger batch.

9. How can I make these cookies crunchier?

To make the cookies crunchier, you can flatten them a little more with a fork or bake them for a couple of extra minutes.

10. Can I make these cookies in advance for a party?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough and bake the cookies later.

Conclusion

These homemade vanilla cookies are a timeless classic that will never go out of style. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can bake a batch of soft, delicious cookies that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you're making them for a special occasion or just for a treat, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone.

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These soft and delicious homemade vanilla cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients like butter, vanilla, and icing sugar, they are easy to prepare and perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. Whether you're a beginner baker or a pro, this vanilla cookie recipe will be your go-to for a comforting, sweet snack.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
• Total Time: 25-28 minutes
• Yield: 12-15 cookies
• Category: Cookies, Dessert, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1 cup self-raising flour

½ cup unsalted butter

½ cup icing sugar

3 Tbsp cornflour

1 tsp vanilla extract

¼ tsp salt

2 Tbsp milk

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 170°C (338°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter, vanilla extract, and icing sugar. Mix until the mixture becomes light and pale.

3. Add the self-raising flour, cornflour, and salt. Stir until a dough forms. If the dough is too crumbly, add a little milk to bring it together. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a bit of flour.

4. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.

5. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking tray and use a fork to press them down slightly, creating a pattern on the surface.

6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cookies are slightly golden around the edges.

7. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Notes

• Variations:

  • For added sweetness, drizzle a simple glaze over the cooled cookies.

  • Add chocolate chips or nuts (like almonds or pecans) to the dough for extra flavor and texture.

  • For a spiced twist, mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Reheat cookies in a microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 5-7 minutes.