Butter cookies decorated with beautiful buttercream roses

Butter Cookies with Buttercream Roses

Butter Cookies with Buttercream Roses are a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. Imagine soft, buttery cookies topped with beautifully piped roses made from creamy buttercream. Each bite offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience that delights the senses and warms the heart. This recipe is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or just a sweet indulgence at home. Follow this step-by-step guide to create these treats that are sure to bring smiles to everyone you share them with.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best things about this Butter Cookies with Buttercream Roses recipe is its easy preparation. With just a few simple steps, you can create stunning cookies that look as if they came from a bakery. This recipe is family-friendly, making it perfect for cooking with kids or for impressing guests. The ingredients required are minimal yet flavorful, ensuring that you won’t be overwhelmed as you whip up this treat. You’ll find that the result is not just a cookie; it’s a work of art!

Ingredients for Butter Cookies with Buttercream Roses

1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, softened: This ingredient brings a rich flavor and a soft texture to your cookies.
3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar: Sweetness is essential, and this will balance perfectly with the buttery flavor.
1 large egg: It helps bind the ingredients together and adds moisture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This aromatic flavor elevates your cookies to the next level.
2 1/4 cups (280 g) all-purpose flour: The foundation of your cookie dough, adding structure.
1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch enhances all flavors in your cookies.

For the Buttercream Roses:

1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, softened: Acts as the base for your smooth frosting.
3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar, sifted: Contributes to the sweetness and texture of the icing.
2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk: Adds the right consistency for piping.
1 teaspoon vanilla or almond extract: An essential flavor component for delicious frosting.
Red gel food coloring: For vibrant, stunning rose petals.
Green gel food coloring: To create lovely leaves surrounding your flowers.
Piping bags with a rose tip (Wilton 2D or 1M) and a leaf tip: These will help you create beautiful decorations.

Step-by-Step Directions For the Cookies

Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This preparation is crucial for ensuring even baking and easy cleanup.
Create the Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. The key here is to incorporate plenty of air into the mixture for a fluffy texture.
Add Egg and Vanilla: Next, incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into your mixture, mixing until well combined. This step includes further flavor depth.
Mix in Flour and Salt: Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing just until a soft dough begins to form. Be careful not to over-mix, as this could lead to dense cookies.
Shape and Bake: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to flatten each ball slightly. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack to maintain their soft texture.

Step-by-Step Directions For the Buttercream Roses

Prepare the Buttercream: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sifted powdered sugar together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
Adjust Consistency: Add heavy cream or milk along with the vanilla or almond extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. If the frosting appears too stiff, gradually add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Color the Frosting: Divide the frosting into two bowls. Use the red gel food coloring in one bowl and the green gel food coloring in the other to create your rose petals and leaves.
Pipe the Roses: Fit your piping bags with a rose tip (Wilton 2D or 1M) and a leaf tip. Pipe a beautiful rose on top of each cooled cookie using the red buttercream. Next, with the green buttercream, pipe leaves around the base of each rose to complete your stunning decoration.
Set and Serve: Allow the buttercream roses to set before serving. Whether you’re gifting them or serving them at a gathering, your guests will surely be impressed!

Tips & Tricks

Butter Temperature: Ensure that your butter is softened but not melted. This is key for achieving the right consistency in both the cookies and the buttercream.
Piping Techniques: Practice your piping technique on parchment paper before applying it to your cookies, which can help you get used to the rose shape.
Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. You can also freeze un-iced cookies for up to three months.
Customization: Feel free to experiment with different colors for the buttercream using gel food coloring, or add chocolate chips to the cookie dough for variation.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These Butter Cookies with Buttercream Roses can be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. Consider arranging them on a decorative platter and pairing them with fresh fruit or other homemade goodies for a beautiful dessert table at parties and celebrations. They also make wonderful gifts when beautifully packaged, adding a personal touch that loved ones will appreciate.

Nutritional Information

Each butter cookie with buttercream roses contains approximately 120 calories. This is a delightful indulgence worth every bite. While these cookies are not the lowest-calorie option, they provide a moment of joy that is perfect for special occasions.

Storing Tips & Variations For Butter Cookies with Buttercream Roses

To preserve your Butter Cookies, place them in a sealed container at room temperature for up to a week if iced. If you need longer storage, consider freezing the cookies without frosting for up to three months.

For a healthier twist, consider using coconut oil instead of butter or substituting part of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor. You can also infuse the buttercream with different flavors, such as lemon or chocolate, to create unique variations.

Conclusion For Butter Cookies with Buttercream Roses

Now is the perfect time to create these stunning Butter Cookies with Buttercream Roses. Whether for a celebration, a thoughtful gift, or a delightful treat for yourself, these cookies are sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and start baking, because your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs

Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to three days. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be used, it may alter the texture and flavor slightly. Unsalted butter is recommended for the best taste.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If frosted, you can refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Can I use a different frosting for the cookies?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze if buttercream is not your preference.
What if I don’t have piping bags?
You can create a makeshift piping bag using a zip-lock bag by snipping off one corner. This will allow you to pipe the frosting just as effectively!

These Butter Cookies with Buttercream Roses are not only delightful but also a heartwarming way to show love through baking. Enjoy the process and share these joys with others!