Butter cookies
Description
Butter cookies are delicate, crumbly pastries with an intense, creamy taste of butter and a subtle sweetness, usually golden at the edges and uniformly light in the center. They have a dense, fine-grained texture that melts in the mouth, and the aroma of vanilla or citrus zest often enhances their flavor. Nutritionally, butter cookies are calorie-dense and rich in fats, especially saturated fats, providing energy, a small amount of protein, and fat-soluble vitamins from the butter. When consumed in moderation, they can be a pleasant source of readily available energy; the homemade version allows for control over the quality of fat and sugar levels. They pair well as an accompaniment to tea and coffee, as a base for desserts (crumbles, tart crusts), a snack, or an elegant gift. To maintain freshness, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7–10 days, separating layers with paper, and for longer storage, freeze for 2–3 months; avoid moisture and intense heat that can cause them to soften.
