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Authentic Melt-in-Your-Mouth Danish Butter Cookies

A pile of golden, star-shaped butter cookie treats dusted lightly with sugar on a small plate.
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Follow this classic recipe to create rich, buttery cookies that achieve the signature melt-in-your-mouth texture reminiscent of the best Danish butter cookies found in tins. These are simple to make and perfect for gifting or enjoying anytime.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for texture.
  2. Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cornstarch.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
  5. Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip (like Wilton 1M) for classic shapes, or shape the dough into logs and chill for 30 minutes if you prefer a shortbread style cookie.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. Pipe or slice the dough into desired shapes, about 1/2 inch thick, onto the prepared sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
  8. Bake for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The centers should remain pale.
  9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. For an extra touch, dip the cooled cookies halfway into melted chocolate and let them set.

Notes

  • Use high-quality, room-temperature butter for the best creaming action and final texture.
  • Chilling the piped cookies for 15 minutes before baking helps them hold their shape better during baking.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute 1/4 cup of the all-purpose flour with almond flour.
  • These cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameal.com/butter-cookie-melt-in-your-mouth-danish-recipe/