When it comes to timeless treats, butter piped cookies stand at the top of the list. Their delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with beautiful, intricate designs makes them a favorite for tea parties, weddings, holiday platters — or simply for a touch of everyday luxury.
With just a handful of ingredients and a piping bag, you can create cookies that look as good as they taste. Today, I’m sharing a simple, foolproof recipe that will help you bake stunning butter piped cookies like a professional.
Simple Butter Piped Cookies Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (90g) powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons milk (plus more if needed)
- Pinch of salt
(Optional: A few tablespoons of melted chocolate or sprinkles for decorating.)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Your OvenPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and SugarIn a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes) using an electric mixer.
3. Add Vanilla and Dry IngredientsMix in the vanilla extract. Sift the flour and salt together, then gradually add it to the butter mixture. Beat just until incorporated. Add 2 tablespoons of milk to loosen the dough slightly — the texture should be soft but firm enough to hold a piped shape. If the dough is too stiff, add another tablespoon of milk.
4. Pipe the DoughTransfer the dough into a piping bag fitted with a large open star tip (such as Wilton 1M or 2D). Pipe rosettes, shells, or simple lines onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each cookie.
5. BakeBake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Be careful not to overbake — you want these cookies to stay tender!
6. Cool and DecorateLet the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet. If desired, drizzle with melted chocolate, dip one end in chocolate, or sprinkle with festive decorations.
Pro Tips for Perfect Butter Piped Cookies:
- Use very soft butter: This makes the dough much easier to pipe.
- Don’t overwork the dough: Overmixing can make the cookies tough instead of tender.
- Choose the right piping tip: Larger tips work best for an elegant, defined shape.
- Chill before baking (optional): If your piped shapes start to lose detail, pop the tray into the fridge for 10–15 minutes before baking to help them hold their design.
Final Thoughts
Butter piped cookies are a beautiful way to add a touch of sophistication to your baking. With their buttery richness and charming designs, they make any occasion feel just a little more special. Best of all, once you master the technique, the creative possibilities are endless — from simple swirls to intricate wreaths and flowers.
Start with this easy recipe and watch how a few classic ingredients can transform into something truly magical.