There’s something truly comforting about a simple butter cookie. Its rich, buttery flavor and delicate crumb can turn any ordinary moment into a little celebration. I’ve always been a fan, and I’ve spent (maybe a little too much) time trying different brands to find the absolute best. So, if you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s both classic and delicious, I’ve got you covered. This list features some of my favorite butter cookies that you can easily buy online.
Here’s a quick look at my top picks:
- Royal Dansk Danish Butter Cookies: The classic tin for a reason!
- Walkers Shortbread Fingers: Simple, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
- Grandma’s Butter Cookies: Soft, chewy, and nostalgic.
- Pepperidge Farm Chessmen Cookies: Elegantly shaped and subtly sweet.
- Biscotti Artisans Butter Cookies: A more gourmet option with unique flavors.
Top 5 Best Butter Cookies To Buy
1. Royal Dansk Danish Butter Cookies
Royal Dansk cookies are a classic for a reason. Housed in that iconic blue tin, these cookies are a staple during the holidays and perfect for any time you crave a buttery treat. They offer a variety of shapes and textures, from the simple round cookies to the more intricate pretzel designs.
Pros:
- ✅ Great variety of shapes and textures.
- ✅ Buttery and rich flavor.
- ✅ Easily found in most stores and online.
Cons:
- ❌ Can sometimes be a bit dry.
- ❌ The tin can be difficult to open.
- ❌ Some shapes are better than others.
Verdict: A solid choice for a classic butter cookie experience, especially if you enjoy variety. It’s perfect for sharing or gifting.
2. Walkers Shortbread Fingers
Walkers Shortbread Fingers are known for their simple, yet incredibly satisfying flavor. Made with just a few high-quality ingredients, these cookies have a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a rich, buttery taste. I always keep a box on hand for a quick and easy dessert.
Pros:
- ✅ Exceptionally buttery and tender texture.
- ✅ Made with high-quality ingredients.
- ✅ Simple and classic flavor.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit crumbly.
- ❌ Only one flavor option.
- ❌ More expensive than some other brands.
Verdict: If you appreciate a truly buttery and melt-in-your-mouth shortbread, Walkers is the way to go. It’s a splurge, but worth it for the quality.
3. Grandma’s Butter Cookies
Grandma’s Butter Cookies offer a soft and chewy alternative to the crispier varieties. These cookies have a slightly sweeter flavor and a satisfyingly soft texture that makes them incredibly addictive. They remind me of the cookies my own grandma used to bake.
Pros:
- ✅ Soft and chewy texture.
- ✅ Nostalgic and comforting flavor.
- ✅ Affordable and widely available.
Cons:
- ❌ Not as intensely buttery as other brands.
- ❌ Contains more additives and preservatives.
- ❌ Can be overly sweet for some.
Verdict: A great option if you prefer a softer, chewier cookie with a sweeter flavor profile. Perfect for a quick and easy snack.
4. Pepperidge Farm Chessmen Cookies
Pepperidge Farm Chessmen Cookies are subtly sweet and elegantly shaped. These cookies are known for their delicate flavor and crisp texture. They’re a great choice for tea time or as a light dessert.
Pros:
- ✅ Delicately sweet and flavorful.
- ✅ Crisp and satisfying texture.
- ✅ Elegant shapes add a touch of sophistication.
Cons:
- ❌ Not as intensely buttery as other options.
- ❌ Can be a bit plain for some.
- ❌ The shapes can sometimes break easily.
Verdict: A sophisticated and subtly sweet cookie that’s perfect for those who prefer a more delicate flavor. Great with tea or coffee.
5. Biscotti Artisans Butter Cookies
Biscotti Artisans Butter Cookies offer a more gourmet take on the classic butter cookie. These cookies come in a variety of unique flavors and are made with high-quality ingredients. They’re perfect if you’re looking for something a little more special.
Pros:
- ✅ Unique and interesting flavor options.
- ✅ Made with high-quality ingredients.
- ✅ Beautifully packaged, making them great for gifting.
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than other brands.
- ❌ Availability may be limited.
- ❌ Flavors might not appeal to everyone.
Verdict: A great choice for those looking for a gourmet butter cookie experience with unique flavor combinations. Perfect for special occasions or as a treat for yourself.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right butter cookie can seem simple, but there are a few things to consider to ensure you get the best treat for your taste:
- Butter Content: The higher the butter content, the richer and more flavorful the cookie will be. Look for cookies that list butter as one of the main ingredients.
- Texture: Do you prefer a crisp, melt-in-your-mouth cookie or a soft and chewy one? Different brands offer different textures, so consider your preference.
- Ingredients: Check the ingredient list for high-quality ingredients like real butter, vanilla extract, and natural flavorings. Avoid cookies with excessive additives or preservatives.
- Flavor Variations: While classic butter cookies are delicious on their own, some brands offer flavored options like vanilla, chocolate, or even more unique combinations.
- Intended Use: Are you buying cookies for a special occasion, a gift, or just a personal snack? Consider the packaging and presentation if you’re giving them as a gift.
FAQs
Q: What makes a butter cookie different from other cookies?
A: Butter cookies are distinguished by their high butter content, which gives them a rich flavor and tender texture. They typically have fewer ingredients than other types of cookies, focusing on the pure taste of butter.
Q: How should I store butter cookies to keep them fresh?
A: Store butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help prevent them from drying out and maintain their texture and flavor. Some people even freeze them to keep them fresh longer.
Q: Are butter cookies gluten-free?
A: Traditional butter cookies are not gluten-free as they are made with wheat flour. However, there are gluten-free butter cookie options available that use alternative flours like almond or rice flour.
Q: Can I bake butter cookies at home?
A: Absolutely! Butter cookies are relatively easy to make at home with a few simple ingredients. There are countless recipes online that you can try, and you can customize the flavors and shapes to your liking.
Q: What are some good pairings for butter cookies?
A: Butter cookies pair well with a variety of beverages, including tea, coffee, milk, and even dessert wine. They can also be enjoyed with fresh fruit, ice cream, or chocolate.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect butter cookie is a matter of personal preference, but hopefully, this guide has given you a good starting point. Whether you prefer the classic simplicity of Walkers Shortbread, the nostalgic taste of Grandma’s cookies, or the gourmet flavors of Biscotti Artisans, there’s a butter cookie out there for everyone. So go ahead, treat yourself to a tin (or two!) and enjoy the simple pleasure of a delicious butter cookie.
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.