Danish Butter Cookies Recipe: A Classic Treat for Any Occasion

A Taste of Tradition

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about Danish butter cookies. Maybe it’s the iconic blue tin passed around during the holidays, the delicate buttery aroma wafting through the kitchen, or the satisfying snap of biting into a golden, crisp rosette. These cookies transport you to a place of warmth, family gatherings, and cozy moments — whether it’s a snowy winter day or a quiet afternoon with a steaming cup of tea.

This recipe is inspired by the traditional Danish vaniljekranse (vanilla wreaths), often enjoyed during Christmastime in Denmark. But let’s be honest — they’re so delicious, you’ll want to make them all year round. The best part? They’re surprisingly simple to make at home with just a handful of pantry staples.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these Danish butter cookies will make your kitchen smell heavenly and your cookie jar the most popular spot in the house.

Why You’ll Love This Danish Butter Cookie Recipe

✅ Simple Ingredients – Just 7 everyday ingredients you likely already have.
✅ Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture – Thanks to the perfect ratio of butter and sugar.
✅ Elegant Look – Rosette piping gives them that bakery-quality finish.
✅ Versatile Treat – Perfect for holidays, gifts, or your daily coffee break.
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly – They store beautifully and freeze well, too!

Ingredients (Makes ~25 Cookies)

To achieve the signature buttery, crumbly texture of authentic Danish butter cookies, quality ingredients are key:

1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
2/3 cup (80 g) powdered sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
¼ cup (30 g) cornstarch
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt

Pro Tip: Use European-style butter (like Kerrygold or Plugrá) for even richer flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

A good cookie starts with a well-whipped base. Here’s how to create a soft, pipeable dough:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar together using an electric mixer until light, creamy, and fluffy — about 2–3 minutes.
Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything mixes evenly.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed or by hand until a soft dough forms.

Note: The dough should be smooth but slightly firm to hold its shape during piping.

2. Pipe the Cookies

Now comes the fun (and fancy-looking) part!

Transfer the dough into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip — we recommend Wilton 1M for beautiful ridged rosettes.
Pipe onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, forming small circles or classic “wreath” shapes.

Troubleshooting Tip: If the dough is too stiff to pipe easily, let it sit at room temperature for a few more minutes, or mix in 1–2 teaspoons of milk to soften it slightly.

3. Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the cookies for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Baking Tip: Keep a close eye during the last few minutes — the cookies can go from golden to overbaked quickly.

4. Serve & Store

Serve fresh with your favorite hot beverage — they pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or hot cocoa.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Freeze for longer storage — baked cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Gift Idea: Package these in a decorative tin with a ribbon for a homemade holiday gift that feels luxurious but is incredibly budget-friendly.

Variations and Flavor Twists

Want to make these cookies your own? Try one of these creative spins:

1. Chocolate-Dipped Danish Cookies

Dip half of each cooled cookie into melted dark or white chocolate, then place on parchment paper to set.

2. Almond Butter Cookies

Add ½ tsp almond extract in place of some or all of the vanilla for a nutty twist.

3. Lemon Vanilla Cookies

Add 1 tsp lemon zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy flavor that balances the richness.

4. Sprinkled Rosettes

Add colorful nonpareils or coarse sanding sugar before baking for a festive look.

Have kids help with decorating — it’s a fun and easy way to get them involved!

Tips for Perfect Danish Butter Cookies

Use softened, not melted, butter – This ensures the dough is pipeable and the cookies hold their shape.
Do not overbake – You’re looking for golden edges, not a browned top.
Chill the dough if needed – If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate piped cookies for 10–15 minutes before baking to help them retain their shape.
Double the batch – These cookies go fast. One batch makes ~25 cookies, but you’ll probably want more!

What Makes Danish Butter Cookies Unique?

Unlike typical sugar cookies or shortbread, Danish butter cookies strike a perfect balance between crisp and tender, thanks to the addition of cornstarch, which gives them that melt-in-your-mouth quality.

They’re also traditionally piped into elegant shapes, giving them their signature look — perfect for high tea or festive platters.

In Denmark, these cookies are known as vaniljekranse, literally “vanilla wreaths,” and are often a symbol of holiday warmth and hospitality.

Pairing Suggestions

If you’re looking to create a complete experience around your cookies, here are a few pairing ideas:

Hot Drinks: Earl Grey, espresso, or hot chocolate with a touch of cinnamon.
Cold Drinks: Iced coffee or a creamy vanilla milkshake.
Other Treats: Serve alongside macarons, biscotti, or chocolate truffles on a dessert tray.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days. Let it sit at room temperature until soft enough to pipe.

Can I use a cookie press instead of piping?

Absolutely. These cookies work beautifully in a cookie press, though the texture may be slightly more compact.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

This usually happens if the dough is too warm. Chill piped cookies before baking or add a bit more flour to stabilize the dough.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes — substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend and check that your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.

The Perfect Cookie Tin Addition

These Danish butter cookies are the kind that disappear quickly at family gatherings, bake sales, and office parties. They’re understated but elegant, rich without being too sweet, and their classic charm makes them a welcome guest on any dessert table.

Pair them with chocolate chip cookies, gingerbread men, or coconut macaroons in a holiday cookie tin for variety and flavor contrast.

Final Thoughts: A Cookie Worth Sharing

Whether you’re making them for a cozy night in, a holiday celebration, or just because you’re craving something buttery and delicious, Danish butter cookies are the kind of treat that brings joy with every bite.

They’re simple, elegant, and made with love — and once you try this recipe, they might just become your new go-to cookie.

So preheat your oven, grab that piping bag, and make your kitchen smell like a Danish bakery today.