Classic Butter Cookies: 

Butter cookies, with their tender crumb and rich, buttery flavor, are a beloved classic in the world of baked goods. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from holiday celebrations to afternoon tea. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these delectable treats in no time.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose/plain flour
• 185g butter, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 1/2 cups icing sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the room-temperature butter and icing sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This can be done using a hand mixer or a stand mixer.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Milk

1. Add the egg and milk to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and salt to ensure even distribution.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in the mixing bowl. Mix until a soft, smooth dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

1. On a lightly floured surface, roll the cookie dough into a log, about 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter.
2. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.

Step 6: Slice and Bake

1. Once the dough is chilled, slice it into rounds, about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick. You can also shape the dough into any desired shape using cookie cutters.
2. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

1. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Notes:

• You can get creative with your butter cookies by adding a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of citrus zest to the dough for extra flavor.
• For a decorative touch, you can dust the cookies with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or decorate them with a drizzle of melted chocolate.
• Butter cookies are wonderfully versatile and can be shaped or decorated in various ways, making them a perfect canvas for your creative baking endeavors.

These Classic Butter Cookies are a timeless treat that brings comfort and joy to any occasion. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich buttery flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or given as a thoughtful gift, these cookies are a delightful way to spread a little sweetness.