Arabic Butter Cookies (One Dough)

Soft and buttery Arabic cookies, made from one dough, with a variety of coatings like chocolate, sprinkles, and pistachio, perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Arabic Butter Cookies are a classic treat that combines the rich, buttery flavor of the dough with the crunch of pistachios or the sweetness of chocolate. These cookies are versatile, allowing for endless variations in flavor and decoration, making them ideal for any occasion, from festive holidays to casual tea time. The best part is that they come together from a simple dough, which you can divide and customize into multiple variations. Whether you enjoy them plain, dipped in chocolate, or adorned with colorful sprinkles, these cookies will become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder (optional, for chocolate flavor)
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional for garnish)
• 1/4 cup sprinkles (optional for garnish)
• 1/2 cup melted chocolate (for dipping, optional)

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add in the vanilla extract and mix until well incorporated.
4. Sift the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and cornstarch together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together.
5. Divide the dough into three portions. For one portion, add cocoa powder and mix until fully combined.
6. Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the baking sheet. For variety, you can shape some into simple round cookies, and others into small pinwheels or twist shapes.
7. Press lightly with a fork or your fingers to flatten each cookie, making sure to leave some room between them.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden. The cookies should remain soft in the center.
9. Once cooled, dip the chocolate-flavored cookies in melted chocolate and garnish with sprinkles or chopped pistachios. You can also dip the regular butter cookies into chocolate or decorate with sprinkles.
10. Let the cookies set and cool before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies

Variations

1. Add Nuts: Besides pistachios, you can also use almonds or walnuts as garnishes for added crunch.
2. Use Different Flavors: Experiment by adding a teaspoon of cardamom or cinnamon to the dough for an aromatic twist.
3. Decorate with Icing: Instead of dipping in chocolate, drizzle some simple icing over the cookies for a sweet, decorative finish.
4. Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They also freeze well for up to 1 month.
• Reheating: If you prefer your cookies warm, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter, though it may affect the texture and flavor slightly. Butter gives the cookies a richer taste and more tender texture.

Can I make these cookies without the chocolate or pistachios?

Absolutely! The base dough itself is delicious and can be enjoyed plain, or you can decorate with any other toppings, like colored sugar or a dusting of powdered sugar.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies are done when the edges turn slightly golden. They should still be soft in the center. Keep an eye on them, as they bake quickly.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, these cookies can be made ahead of time. You can prepare the dough, shape it into balls, and refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to bake. Baked cookies can also be stored for up to 1 week at room temperature.

Can I add other flavorings to the dough?

Yes, you can add vanilla, almond extract, or even orange zest to the dough for a personalized touch.

Conclusion

These Arabic Butter Cookies (One Dough) are an easy, delicious treat that can be customized to suit any occasion. Whether you enjoy them plain, dipped in chocolate, or decorated with sprinkles and pistachios, they are sure to become a favorite in your baking collection. With a simple dough base and endless ways to make them your own, these cookies are perfect for a variety of events and celebrations, making them both versatile and irresistible. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of these delightful cookies!

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