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+ servings

Chicago Public School Butter Cookies

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword Chicago Public School Butter Cookies
Servings 8
Classic buttery cookies with a nostalgic flavor, just like the ones served in Chicago school cafeterias. Easy, rich, and unforgettable!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon fine salt
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until light, fluffy, and smooth.

Step 2: Add Vanilla

  • Scrape down the sides of the bowl and mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Mix in Dry Ingredients

  • Gradually add the salt and flour, mixing until no streaks of flour remain and the dough comes together.

Step 4: Portion the Dough

  • Using a large spoon or ice cream scoop, portion the dough into 24 balls, each about the size of a small tangerine.

Step 5: Press the Cookies

  • Press the tops of each dough ball with three fingers, leaving indentations for the classic Chicago Public School cookie look.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

  • Place the shaped cookies on a tray and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to help them hold their shape while baking.

Step 7: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheets

  • Preheat oven to 375°F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Arrange cookies on the sheets with 2–3 inches of space between them.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

  • Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 9: Cool the Cookies

  • Let the cookies rest on the baking tray for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.