Buttermilk Cookies with Vanilla Frosting

Buttermilk Cookies with Vanilla Frosting Recipe

Delicious soft and tender Buttermilk Cookies topped with creamy vanilla frosting. These cookies are easy to make and feature a unique tangy flavor from the buttermilk, balanced with a sweet, smooth frosting that melts in your mouth. Perfect for dessert or an afternoon treat.

CourseDessert
CuisineAmerican
Keywordbuttermilk cookies, cookies recipe, soft cookies, vanilla frosting, easy dessert, homemade cookies, Baking
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Additional Time60 minutes
Total Time90 minutes
Servings24 cookies
Calories240kcal

Ingredients

Cookies

  • 1 cup butter room temperature
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 4 cups flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk room temperature

Frosting

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, cream together the room temperature butter and sugar until light and fluffy to create the base of the cookies.
  2. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  3. Incorporate 2 cups of flour, baking soda, and salt into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
  4. Stir in about half of the buttermilk gradually to help moisten the dough.
  5. Add the remaining 2 cups of flour and mix; scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is fully combined.
  6. Stir in the remaining buttermilk to achieve a smooth, creamy dough consistency.
  7. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 24 hours to allow flavors to meld and dough to firm.
  8. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy cookie removal.
  9. Scoop dough onto prepared sheets, spacing cookies evenly; bake for 10 minutes or until edges are very lightly golden brown.
  10. Remove from oven and let cookies set on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
  11. In a large bowl, beat the butter until smooth and creamy as the base for the frosting.
  12. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and 2 tablespoons of milk; stir well to combine into a smooth frosting.
  13. Add additional milk tablespoon by tablespoon if needed to reach desired spreadable consistency.
  14. Spread the frosting generously over the cooled cookies with a knife or spatula.

Notes

  • Do not skip the chilling step as it helps develop the flavor and texture of the cookies.
  • Room temperature butter and buttermilk ensure better mixing and texture.
  • Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  • The frosting can be adjusted for thickness by adding more or less milk.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Nutrition

Calories: 240kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 40mg | Sodium: 120mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 18g