How to Make Butter Cookies (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Butter Cookies, known locally as Biskut Mentega, are a beloved treat in Malaysia, especially during festive seasons like Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, and Deepavali. These cookies are celebrated for their melt-in-the-mouth texture and rich, buttery aroma. Over generations, Malaysians have enhanced the classic recipe with unique local ingredients such as pandan and a hint of vanilla, reflecting our multicultural culinary heritage. The simplicity of Butter Cookies makes them a staple at family gatherings and as an everyday snack to accompany a cup of teh tarik or kopi O. Choosing a healthier version of this classic cookie allows you to enjoy its nostalgic flavors with less guilt. By using quality ingredients and mindful preparation, this recipe preserves the authentic taste while keeping calories in check. Whether enjoyed as a mid-morning snack or light lunch dessert, these cookies are a delightful way to experience Malaysia’s rich food culture. Perfect for both young and old, Butter Cookies continue to be a symbol of warmth and togetherness in Malaysian homes.
Ingredients
- 60g Unsalted butter (mentega tawar)
- 80g Fine wholemeal flour (tepung gandum penuh)
- 20g Cornstarch (tepung jagung)
- 25g Icing sugar (gula aising)
- 1 teaspoon Pandan extract (ekstrak pandan (optional for aroma))
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla essence (esen vanila)
- 1/8 teaspoon Pinch of salt (garam halus)
- 1 tablespoon Low-fat milk (susu rendah lemak)
- 1 tablespoon Chopped roasted almonds (badam panggang cincang (optional))
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F)
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2 · In a large mixing bowl
In a large mixing bowl, cream unsalted butter and icing sugar until light and fluffy using a hand mixer.
Step 3 · Add pandan extract and vanilla essence into the creamed mixture
Add pandan extract and vanilla essence into the creamed mixture. Mix until well combined.
Step 4 · Sift in wholemeal flour
Sift in wholemeal flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula.
Step 5 · Add low-fat milk and mix until a soft dough forms
Add low-fat milk and mix until a soft dough forms. If using, fold in chopped roasted almonds.
Step 6 · Scoop small portions (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll into balls
Scoop small portions (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll into balls. Place on the tray and gently flatten with a fork for a classic pattern.
Step 7 · Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden
Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Cool on tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Why this recipe is healthy
This healthy Butter Cookie recipe swaps refined flour for wholemeal flour, reducing simple carbohydrates and improving fiber content. Lower sugar and butter amounts help keep calories in check without compromising the classic Malaysian flavor. Using low-fat milk further reduces saturated fat, making it suitable for those monitoring their heart health. Mindful portion sizes make it easier to enjoy this treat as part of a balanced diet.
A note on tradition
Butter Cookies are a festive staple in many Malaysian households, symbolizing hospitality and togetherness regardless of ethnic background. Their popularity spans across Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, and Deepavali, bridging communities with a shared love for homemade treats. Often gifted in decorative tins or served with tea, Biskut Mentega reflects Malaysia’s tradition of celebrating with food, and the addition of pandan or nuts highlights local creativity and flavor preferences.