Food & Cooking Recipes Dessert & Treats Recipes Cookie Recipes Basic Butter Cookie Dough 3.5 (316) 20 Reviews By Martha Stewart Test Kitchen Martha Stewart Test Kitchen The recipes developed by our test kitchen team have undergone a rigorous process of development and testing, ensuring that every element is optimal, from ingredient amounts to method and cooking time. This process includes triple-testing recipes to ensure they meet our high standards. The many stellar cooks and food editors who have been part of our team include Sarah Carey, Lucinda Scala Quinn, Jennifer Aaronson, Shira Bocar, Anna Kovel, Greg Lofts, Riley Wofford, Lauren Tyrell, and Lindsay Leopold. Editorial Guidelines Updated on August 25, 2022 Print Rate It Share Share Tweet Pin Email One basic dough can make very different but equally delectable cookies -- Spritz Butter Cookies, Cut-Out Butter Cookies, and Icebox Butter Cookies. Ingredients 3 cups (spooned and leveled) all-purpose flour 1 cup confectioners' sugar 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut in pieces ½ teaspoon salt 4 large egg yolks 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Egg wash, (optional): 1 large egg white, beaten with 2 teaspoons water Decorating sugar and sprinkles, (optional) Directions Place flour, sugar, butter, and salt in the bowl of a food processor; process until mixture is the texture of coarse meal. In a small bowl, lightly beat egg yolks and vanilla; with motor running, add to food processor. Process just until a dough forms. Rate it Print