Holiday baking is a delightful tradition, and this Butter Cookie Box is here to elevate your festive spirit. Filled with assorted crisp and tender cutout cookies, it features three different flavors: vanilla, chocolate, and matcha. Each dough can be shaped into over ten cookie variations, allowing for endless decoration possibilities. Perfect for sharing during the holidays or at any gathering, this cookie box will impress friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Versatile Flavors: This recipe creates three distinct flavors in one dough, making it perfect for all taste preferences.
• Endless Variations: With simple modifications, you can create over ten different cookie shapes and styles.
• Perfect for Gifting: The beautifully decorated cookies make an excellent gift idea for friends and family during the holiday season.
• Fun for Everyone: Involve kids in the decorating process; it’s a fun activity that everyone can enjoy together.
• Easy to Make: Despite the variety, this recipe is straightforward and manageable even for novice bakers.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Cookie cutters
• Baking sheets

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, yielding fluffy dough.
• Rolling pin: Ensures even dough thickness for perfectly baked cookies.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 560 g all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 450 g unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
• 200 g granulated sugar
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For Flavor Variations

• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons matcha powder

For Decorating

• Coarse sugar crystals
• White chocolate (melted)
• Dark chocolate (melted)
• Pistachios (roughly crushed)
• Nutella or Biscoff spread (warmed until melty)
• Jam
• Powdered sugar

How to Make Butter Cookie Box

Holiday butter cookie box filled with assorted crisp and tender cutout cookies. ONE dough makes three different flavours (vanilla, chocolate, and matcha) and 10+ different cookie variations with endless decoration possibilities.

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, stir together flour and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric hand mixer or stand mixer to beat softened butter on medium speed until very creamy. Add the sugar and cream together until fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture. Mix until fully combined.

Step 4: Integrate Dry Ingredients

Add the flour mixture gradually while mixing on low speed until just combined. The dough should be crumbly but hold together when squeezed; some dry flour patches are acceptable.

Step 5: Divide Dough for Flavors

Divide the dough into three bowls, each weighing about 400g. Set one bowl aside. Add cocoa powder to one bowl and matcha powder to another. Knead each flavor until just combined using a gloved hand.

Step 6: Roll Out Dough

Place each portion of dough between two sheets of parchment paper. Roll out to about 1/8 thick. Transfer all rolled-out cookie doughs to the fridge to chill flat for at least 1-2 hours until solid.

Step 7: Cut Cookies

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Peel parchment from one side of the chilled dough but leave it on the bottom sheet. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the dough and transfer them to your lined baking sheet, leaving about 1/2 between each cookie.

Step 8: Chill Again Before Baking

Chill the entire baking sheet in the fridge while preheating your oven to 350°F. Re-roll scraps between parchment paper as needed, chilling again until solid before cutting more cookies from other sheets of dough.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake cookies for 12-15 minutes depending on size until slightly golden brown on the edges. Transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely before decorating.

Step 10: Decorate Your Cookies

Dip cookies in melted chocolate or drizzle it across using a piping bag with a snipped tip. Sprinkle crushed nuts on top before chocolate hardens.

Step 11: Assemble Your Cookie Box

Add dollops of jam or melted Nutella/Biscoff spread on half of your sandwich cookies. Dust top cookies with powdered sugar before pressing them onto filling layers.

Arrange a selection of cookies in your cookie tin or box starting with larger cookies at the bottom and filling gaps with smaller ones.

This Butter Cookie Box will not only provide delicious treats but also create lasting memories during your holiday celebrations!

How to Serve Butter Cookie Box

A butter cookie box is the perfect way to showcase your festive spirit during the holidays. This delightful collection of assorted cookies can be enjoyed by family and friends, making it a charming gift or a sweet treat for gatherings.

Serving Suggestions

• Gift Wrap: Present your butter cookie box in beautiful packaging, such as a decorative tin or a clear cellophane bag tied with a ribbon.
• Cookie Platter: Arrange the cookies on a large platter, mixing different flavors and shapes for an eye-catching display.
• Coffee Pairing: Serve your cookies alongside freshly brewed coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies to create delicious ice cream sandwiches. Choose flavors that complement the cookies you’ve made.
• Festive Toppings: Enhance your cookie presentation by adding colorful sprinkles, edible glitter, or seasonal decorations.
• Personal Touch: Include homemade cards with cookie flavor descriptions or fun facts about each variety.

How to Perfect Butter Cookie Box

Creating the ideal butter cookie box involves attention to detail and some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

• Chill Your Dough: Allowing the dough to chill before baking helps maintain the shape of the cookies and enhances their flavor.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality butter and fresh vanilla extract to elevate the taste of your cookies.
• Experiment with Shapes: Use various cookie cutters to create themed shapes that fit different occasions, from stars for holidays to hearts for celebrations.
• Decorate Creatively: Let your imagination run wild with decorations—think of using icing, colored sugars, or even edible flowers for an artistic touch.

Best Side Dishes for Butter Cookie Box

While butter cookies are delightful on their own, serving them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Board: Include a selection of mild cheeses that pair well with sweet treats for a balanced snack option.
3. Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a healthy option that pairs nicely with cookies.
4. Nut Mix: A bowl of roasted nuts provides crunch and savory depth alongside the soft texture of butter cookies.
5. Chocolate Fondue: Offer melted chocolate as a dipping option for some interactive fun while enjoying your cookies.
6. Tea Variety: Prepare an assortment of teas, such as chamomile or chai, which can complement the flavors in your butter cookie box.
7. Pudding Cups: Individual servings of creamy pudding provide a rich contrast to crispy cookies.
8. Crackers and Hummus: A savory dip can balance out sweetness and provide variety on your dessert table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Butter Cookie Box can be fun and rewarding, but there are common mistakes that can lead to disappointing results. Here are some tips to ensure your cookie box turns out perfectly.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Always use room temperature butter and eggs. Cold ingredients can prevent the dough from mixing well, resulting in uneven texture.

• Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping the chilling step can cause the cookies to spread too much during baking. Chill the dough thoroughly for better shape and texture.

• Over Mixing the Dough: Mixing too long after adding flour can develop gluten and make cookies tough. Mix just until combined to maintain a tender texture.

• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking. An oven that is too hot or cold can drastically change baking time and cookie texture.

• Forgetting to Use Parchment Paper: Not lining your baking sheets with parchment paper can result in cookies sticking. Always use parchment for easy removal and uniform baking.

• Neglecting Decoration Options: Don’t limit yourself! Experiment with different decorations like sprinkles, nuts, or chocolate drizzles to make your cookie box visually appealing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• Layer cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Freezing Butter Cookie Box

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.
• Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating Butter Cookie Box

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for 10-15 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place a few cookies in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making a Butter Cookie Box.

What is a Butter Cookie Box?

A Butter Cookie Box is a delightful assortment of assorted butter cookies made from one versatile dough that allows for various flavors and shapes.

How do I customize my Butter Cookie Box?

You can customize it by adding different flavorings like lemon zest or almond extract, using various toppings like nuts or sprinkles, and creating unique shapes with cookie cutters.

Can I use other types of flour?

While all-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe, you could experiment with gluten-free flour blends. However, results may vary in texture and taste.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these butter cookies can last up to one week at room temperature or two weeks in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes! You can freeze baked cookies for up to three months. Just ensure they are well-packaged so they don’t get freezer burn.

Final Thoughts

This Butter Cookie Box recipe offers endless possibilities for creativity and customization. Whether you’re preparing it as a holiday gift or simply enjoying it yourself, these assorted crisp and tender cutout cookies will delight everyone. Try different flavors, shapes, and decorations to make each batch uniquely yours!

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Butter Cookie Box

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 80 cookies 1x

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Description

Elevate your holiday festivities with this delightful Butter Cookie Box, a collection of assorted crisp and tender cutout cookies that will charm everyone. This versatile recipe brings together three distinct flavors—vanilla, chocolate, and matcha—crafted from a single dough. Each dough can be transformed into over ten unique cookie shapes, offering endless possibilities for decoration. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or gifting to loved ones, these cookies not only taste heavenly but also create lasting memories during the festive season.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 560 g all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 450 g unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
• 200 g granulated sugar
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons matcha powder
• Coarse sugar crystals
• Melted white chocolate
• Melted dark chocolate
• Crushed pistachios
• Nutella or Biscoff spread (warmed until melty)
• Jam
• Powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt; set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter on medium speed until creamy. Add granulated sugar and cream until fluffy (3-4 minutes).
3. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture while mixing on low speed until just combined; the dough should be crumbly yet hold together when squeezed.
5. Divide the dough into three portions: keep one plain, mix cocoa powder into another, and matcha powder into the third; knead until just incorporated.
6. Roll each portion between parchment paper to about 1/8 inch thick and chill for 1-2 hours until solid.
7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut shapes from chilled dough and place on lined baking sheets; chill again if needed.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown; cool completely before decorating.
9. Decorate with melted chocolate, nuts, jam, or powdered sugar as desired.

• Prep Time: 90 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (approximately 12g)
• Calories: 77
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 30mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: For added flavor variations, consider using lemon zest or almond extract in place of vanilla. Experiment with different cookie shapes using various cookie cutters to suit any occasion. Don’t skip chilling the dough; it helps maintain the shape during baking.