Soft Buttermilk Cookies Recipe

Indulge in the irresistible taste of these Soft Buttermilk Cookies! This recipe, originally from Taste of Home magazine and perfected with a few tweaks, delivers deliciously rich and flavorful cookies that disappear instantly. Get ready for melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and a subtle tang that will have everyone asking for more. Perfect for afternoon tea, holiday gatherings, or a simple sweet treat!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 32 mins
Calories 135 kcal
Protein 2g
Rating 4.4 (11 Reviews)
Soft Buttermilk Cookies 29

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

How to Make Soft Buttermilk Cookies

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) of softened unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer.
  3. Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1 cup buttermilk. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  6. Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
  7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them as ovens vary.
  8. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. **For the Frosting:** In a medium bowl, cream together ½ cup (1 stick) softened unsalted butter and 2 cups powdered sugar until smooth.
  10. Gradually add 2-4 tablespoons of milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in ½ teaspoon vanilla extract.
  11. Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them generously. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts, if desired.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

3 g

Sugar

68g

Fat

11g

Carbs

8g

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