These delicate, buttery cookies from Chef Pamela Burns of the Wild Plum Café, Bistro and Bakery are a perfect example of simple elegance. Made with just four ingredients—butter, sugar, flour, and vanilla—they’re crisp at the edges, tender within, and melt beautifully on the tongue. Their refined flavor and texture make them ideal for an afternoon tea, holiday cookie platter, or a sweet homemade gift from your kitchen.
INGREDIENTS:
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 pound unsalted butter, room temperature (use a premium butter such as Kerrygold or Plugra)
1 cup sugar
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
METHOD:
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and flour together until smooth and cohesive. Add the sugar and continue mixing until the dough is creamy. Blend in the vanilla until the dough comes together and is soft but not sticky.
Turn the dough out onto a sheet of plastic wrap and shape it into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for several hours, or until firm enough to slice. (The dough can be stored up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.)
When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 325°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Slice the chilled dough into rounds about 1/8 inch thick and arrange them about 1 inch apart on the prepared sheets.
Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
- Serve alongside tea, espresso, or a dish of fresh berries.
- Dip half of each cookie in melted dark or white chocolate for an elegant variation.
- Package a dozen cookies in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for a simple, elegant holiday gift.
SOURCE: Recipe courtesy of Chef Pamela Burns, Wild Plum Café, Bistro and Bakery in Monterey
