Easy 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies Ready in 30 Minutes

Did You Know 90% of Home Bakers Overcomplicate Their Cookies?

It’s true—most of us reach for the fancy extracts, exotic spices, and complicated techniques when all we really need is the magic trio: butter, sugar, and flour. These Easy 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies are proof that sometimes, less is more. With just a handful of pantry staples and about 15 minutes of hands-on time, you can create melt-in-your-mouth cookies that rival any bakery’s version.

I discovered this recipe during one of those chaotic weeks when my toddler was teething, my inbox was overflowing, and I desperately needed a little comfort. The simplicity of these cookies felt like a warm hug—no fuss, no stress, just pure buttery bliss. Now they’re my go-to when I want homemade goodness without the hassle.

What makes these cookies special isn’t just their short ingredient list (though that’s certainly part of their charm). It’s how they transform into something greater than the sum of their parts. The rich European-style butter creates a delicate crumb, the sugar caramelizes just enough for depth, and the flour provides the perfect structure. They’re like the little black dress of cookies—simple, elegant, and always appropriate.

Before we dive into the recipe, let me share why these 3-ingredient butter cookies have earned a permanent spot in my baking rotation:

• They’re practically foolproof—perfect for baking with kids or when you’re short on time
• The dough freezes beautifully for impromptu cookie cravings
• They make the most delightful base for creative variations (think citrus zest, vanilla bean, or a sprinkle of sea salt)
• You probably have everything you need right now in your kitchen

Now, let’s preheat those ovens and turn these humble ingredients into something magical…

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Easy 3-Ingredient Butter Cookies

There’s something magical about simplicity in baking—especially when it yields buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies with just three humble ingredients. These little golden delights are perfect for last-minute tea parties, sweet cravings, or gifting in pretty jars. Best of all? No fancy equipment or complicated steps—just pure, buttery bliss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened – The star of the show! Use high-quality butter for the richest flavor. If you only have salted butter, just skip the pinch of salt later.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – This keeps the cookies delicately sweet. For a subtle caramel note, swap in brown sugar.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – Spoon and level it to avoid dense cookies. For extra tenderness, sift it lightly.
• Pinch of salt (optional) – A tiny sprinkle enhances all the flavors, but it’s not essential.

Optional extras: A dash of vanilla extract, lemon zest, or even a dusting of cinnamon sugar before baking. But honestly? They’re perfect as-is.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cream the butter and sugar – In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy. No mixer? No problem! A wooden spoon and some elbow grease work just fine. Tip: Your butter should yield slightly when pressed—too cold, and it won’t blend smoothly; too soft, and the cookies may spread.
2. Fold in the flour – Add the flour (and salt, if using) in two batches, mixing gently until just combined. The dough will be soft but shouldn’t stick to your fingers. Secret trick: If it feels too crumbly, add a teaspoon of cold water. Too sticky? A dusting of extra flour helps.
3. Shape with love – Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Press lightly with a fork for that classic crisscross pattern, or leave them rustic and round. Fun idea: Flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar for a sparkly finish.

Now, pop them in the oven—but we’ll get to baking in the next part! (Spoiler: Your kitchen will smell like a cozy bakery.)

Conclusion

These 3-ingredient butter cookies prove that baking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With just butter, sugar, and flour, you can whip up a batch of melt-in-your-mouth treats that are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re craving a simple snack, hosting a last-minute gathering, or introducing little ones to the joys of baking. The best part? You likely already have everything you need in your pantry!

Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below. If you loved these easy butter cookies, you might also enjoy our 5-Ingredient Shortbread or Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies for more sweet inspiration!

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes! If you only have salted butter on hand, simply omit any additional salt in the recipe. The cookies will still turn out rich and flavorful.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

If your cookies spread more than you’d like, your butter might have been too soft. Try chilling the dough for 15–20 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?

Absolutely! Fold in ½ cup of your favorite mix-ins after combining the three base ingredients. Just keep in mind that this will take the recipe beyond its 3-ingredient simplicity.

How should I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months—just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be slightly different, but they’ll still be delicious.