🧾 Ingredients & Their Purpose

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – The heart of the cookie, butter creates richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens and also helps to cream the butter into a fluffy, airy texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warm, aromatic depth and rounds out the buttery flavor.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – The structural base, giving the cookie its form while keeping the texture tender.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder – Adds just a touch of lift, ensuring the cookies don’t turn out too dense.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons milk – Softens the dough, making it easier to shape and contributing to that tender bite.

 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential for achieving that delicate cookie crumb.
2. Add the Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract. It infuses the dough with rich, sweet undertones that elevate the cookie’s flavor.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the creamed butter, stirring until a soft dough forms.
4. Add the Milk: Pour in the milk and mix just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough — you want it soft and pliable.
5. Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into tablespoon-sized balls. Slightly flatten each into an oval or rectangle on a parchment-lined baking sheet. For the classic washboard look, gently press the tops using a fork or butter knife to create ridges.
6. Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended): For a firmer texture and more defined shape, refrigerate the shaped cookies for 20–30 minutes before baking.
7. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Do not overbake — these cookies are best when soft and buttery.

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Old-fashioned flavor with modern ease.
• No eggs required — perfect for those with allergies or sensitivities.
• Customizable shape and texture – make them rustic or refined.
• Perfect for gifting – they hold up beautifully in cookie tins and holiday boxes.

 Pro Tips for Perfect Butter Cookies

• Use room temperature butter – it should be soft but not melting for the best creaming result.
• Don’t skip the chilling step if your kitchen is warm — it helps prevent spreading.
• Try flavored extracts like almond or lemon for a twist on the classic flavor.
• Dust with powdered sugar after cooling for a pretty finish and extra sweetness.

 Serving Suggestions

These butter washboard cookies pair wonderfully with:

• A hot cup of tea or coffee.
• A glass of cold milk for a nostalgic treat.
• Served alongside fresh berries or ice cream for a simple dessert plate.