Wienerstube Cookies

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes). This creates a tender cookie.
3. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cornstarch. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
5. Shape Cookies: Use a piping bag with a star tip to pipe small circles onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each. Alternatively, roll small portions of dough into balls and flatten slightly.
6. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Don’t overbake!
7. Cool and Dust: Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired.

Cooking Notes and Tips

• Use room temperature butter for easy creaming.
• A star tip piping bag creates beautiful cookies. If the dough is too stiff, let it rest.
• Avoid overmixing the dough to keep the cookies tender.

Variations

• Chocolate-Dipped: Dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate.
• Lemon Zest: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough.
• Almond Flavor: Substitute half the vanilla with almond extract.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Bring to room temperature before using.

How should I store Wienerstube Cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.

What if I don’t have a piping bag?

Roll the dough into balls and flatten; they’ll still taste great!

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce the added salt by about half.

Enjoy these delightful cookies – a perfect blend of tradition and deliciousness!