Vanilla Crescent Cookies with Bourbon Vanilla

Highlighted under: Indulgent Baking Ideas

Delight in the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of Vanilla Crescent Cookies enriched with the warm flavors of bourbon vanilla.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-04T22:45:50.833Z

These Vanilla Crescent Cookies are a family favorite during the holidays, bringing warmth and sweetness to every gathering. The addition of bourbon vanilla gives each bite a distinctive, rich flavor that will have everyone coming back for more.

Why You'll Love These Cookies

  • Rich vanilla flavor enhanced by bourbon vanilla
  • Buttery texture that crumbles delightfully
  • Perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cup of coffee

The Magic of Bourbon Vanilla

Bourbon vanilla is renowned for its rich, complex flavor profile that elevates any baked good. Unlike regular vanilla extract, bourbon vanilla is derived from beans grown in the regions of Madagascar, which are cured in a way that intensifies their natural sweetness and adds depth. This unique flavor makes these crescent cookies stand out, delivering an indulgent taste experience that is both comforting and sophisticated.

When used in baking, bourbon vanilla not only enhances the overall flavor but also brings a touch of warmth that is perfect for cozy gatherings. The aroma that wafts through your kitchen as the cookies bake is simply irresistible, creating an inviting atmosphere that beckons friends and family to come together and enjoy.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Vanilla Crescent Cookies are incredibly versatile, making them ideal for a variety of occasions. Whether you're hosting a holiday party, a casual coffee date, or simply treating yourself, these cookies fit the bill perfectly. Their elegant crescent shape and dusting of powdered sugar give them a festive appearance, making them a delightful addition to any dessert table.

These cookies also make wonderful gifts. Packaged in a decorative box or tin, they convey a personal touch that store-bought treats simply can't match. Friends and family will appreciate the thoughtfulness of homemade cookies, especially when they feature the rich flavors of bourbon vanilla.

Tips for Baking Success

To achieve the best results, ensure that your butter is at room temperature before starting. This allows for better incorporation with the powdered sugar, resulting in a lighter and fluffier dough. If you're short on time, you can cut the butter into smaller pieces and microwave it for a few seconds, but be cautious not to melt it completely.

When shaping the cookies, consistency is key. Aim for uniform crescent shapes to ensure even baking. If you find the dough is too sticky, a light dusting of flour on your hands will help. Remember to let the cookies cool slightly before rolling them in the sugar mixture; this will help the coating adhere better without melting away.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon bourbon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Coating

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon bourbon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the bourbon vanilla extract and mix well. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Shape the Cookies

Take small pieces of dough and roll them into crescent shapes, about 2 inches long. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.

Coat in Sugar

In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar and bourbon vanilla extract. While the cookies are still warm, roll them in the sugar mixture until fully coated.

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your Vanilla Crescent Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, although they are often devoured much quicker! If you want to maintain their buttery texture, avoid refrigerating them as this can make the cookies hard.

If you're looking to extend their shelf life, consider freezing the unbaked dough. Shape the cookies and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. When you're ready to bake, simply take out the desired amount and bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Pairing Suggestions

These Vanilla Crescent Cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. For a classic combination, enjoy them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a warm latte. The rich flavors of the cookies complement the bitterness of coffee beautifully, making for a delightful afternoon treat.

If you're in the mood for something different, try serving these cookies with herbal teas, like chamomile or peppermint. The light, floral notes of the tea will balance the sweetness of the cookies, providing a refreshing contrast that is perfect for a relaxing evening.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of bourbon vanilla?

Yes, you can use regular vanilla extract, but the flavor will be slightly different.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked dough or baked cookies for up to 3 months. Just thaw before baking or serving.

→ What can I do if my dough is too crumbly?

If the dough is too crumbly, try adding a teaspoon of milk or water to help it come together.

Vanilla Crescent Cookies with Bourbon Vanilla

Delight in the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of Vanilla Crescent Cookies enriched with the warm flavors of bourbon vanilla.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Indulgent Baking Ideas

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 24 cookies

What You'll Need

For the Cookies

  1. 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  2. 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  3. 1 teaspoon bourbon vanilla extract
  4. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  5. 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Coating

  1. 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  2. 1 teaspoon bourbon vanilla extract

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the bourbon vanilla extract and mix well. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 03

Take small pieces of dough and roll them into crescent shapes, about 2 inches long. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 04

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.

Step 05

In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar and bourbon vanilla extract. While the cookies are still warm, roll them in the sugar mixture until fully coated.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 6g