Buttery Vanilla Crescent Cookies

Name: Buttery Vanilla Crescent Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional); 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Treats & Confections

Buttery Vanilla Crescent Cookies are delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treats that are perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-03T21:38:31.084Z

Discover the joy of baking with these Buttery Vanilla Crescent Cookies, a family favorite that fills the kitchen with a warm, sweet aroma. Each bite offers a rich, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich buttery flavor that melts in your mouth
Delicate texture with a hint of vanilla
Perfect for sharing during holidays or gatherings

      

A Classic Treat with a Twist

Buttery Vanilla Crescent Cookies are not just your ordinary cookie; they are a delightful blend of rich flavors and textures that make them truly special. The addition of vanilla in the dough elevates the taste, giving each bite a sweet yet subtle aroma that lingers on the palate. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or just want to indulge yourself, these cookies are the perfect choice.

The crescent shape not only adds to their charm but also makes them easy to share. Their unique form allows for a variety of presentations, making them a beautiful addition to any cookie platter. Guests will be drawn to their delicate appearance, and the first bite will have them coming back for more. These treats are as delightful to look at as they are to eat!

Perfect for Any Occasion

These cookies are versatile enough to fit any event, from holiday gatherings to casual get-togethers. Their buttery richness pairs beautifully with coffee or tea, making them an excellent choice for afternoon snacks or dessert. Serve them at family reunions, potlucks, or bake sales, and watch as they disappear in no time.

Additionally, the use of optional chopped nuts adds another layer of flavor and crunch, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of texture in their treats. Whether you choose to include them or keep the cookies nut-free, they will still impress with their melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure your Buttery Vanilla Crescent Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider using room temperature butter. Softened butter incorporates more air during the creaming process, leading to a lighter and fluffier cookie. Also, be mindful when measuring your flour; using too much can lead to a denser cookie. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off for the best results.

Baking time can also vary based on your oven, so keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. You want them to be lightly golden, which indicates they are just right. Allowing them to cool slightly before coating in sugar helps the sugar adhere better, ensuring a sweet finish that compliments the buttery base.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

For the Coating

1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix all ingredients thoroughly for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture until combined. If using, fold in the chopped nuts.

Shape the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into small crescent shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.

Coat the Cookies

In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. While the cookies are still warm, dip each one in the sugar mixture until well-coated.

Enjoy your delicious Buttery Vanilla Crescent Cookies!

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your Buttery Vanilla Crescent Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, but trust us, they won’t last that long! If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy the frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can also pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up and restore that freshly baked taste.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding different flavorings or mix-ins. For a chocolate twist, try incorporating cocoa powder into the dough or dipping the cookies in chocolate after coating them in sugar. You could also add citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, for a refreshing variation that will brighten the flavor profile.

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. The texture may vary slightly, but the rich buttery flavor will still shine through, making these cookies a delightful treat for everyone.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, you can use margarine, but the flavor may differ slightly.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked dough or the baked cookies for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for powdered sugar?

You can blend granulated sugar in a blender until it becomes a fine powder as a substitute.