24 Apr 2025
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 30 min
Ingredients:
1 cup butter
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2.50 cups all-purpose white wheat flour
1/2 cup vanilla extract
2 tbsp milk (1% fat)
1/3 cup sugar
Vanilla Stars are delightful, buttery cookies that melt in your mouth and fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of vanilla. These charming star-shaped treats are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to simple tea parties. Follow this recipe to create your own batch of delicious Vanilla Stars.
Instructions:
1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter using a hand mixer or stand mixer until it’s light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until well combined and creamy.
3. Add Vanilla Extract:
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until it is completely incorporated into the butter and sugar mixture.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift the all-purpose flour to remove any lumps.
5. Form Dough:
- Gradually add the sifted flour to the butter mixture, mixing at a low speed until just combined.
- Pour in the milk and mix until the dough comes together. Do not overmix.
6. Roll Out and Cut Dough:
- Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the cookies and carefully transfer them to the lined baking sheets.
7. Bake:
- Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Finishing Touch:
- While the cookies are cooling, combine the remaining 1/2 cup of vanilla extract and 1/3 cup of sugar in a small bowl.
9. Coat with Sugar Mixture:
- Once the cookies are completely cooled, lightly brush them with the vanilla extract and sugar mixture.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
- Your vanilla stars are now ready to be enjoyed! Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Tips:
- Ensure that your butter is at room temperature before you start, as this will help it cream more easily with the powdered sugar.
- When measuring flour, use the spoon and level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can make the cookies dense.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This will make it easier to handle and help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
- Use a lightly floured surface to roll out the dough to prevent sticking, but be careful not to incorporate too much extra flour.
- Rotate your cookie sheet halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
Once baked to perfection, these Vanilla Stars will look beautiful and taste heavenly. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and enjoy them with a cup of milk, tea, or coffee. Happy baking!