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Vanilla Wafer Cookies – Crispy, Sweet & Perfectly Bite-Sized

Bake a batch of classic vanilla wafer cookies! Light, crispy, and delicately sweet, these bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking, desserts, or using in layered recipes like banana pudding. Easy to make and sure to please kids and adults alike.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American, Classic
Servings 30 cookies
Calories 90 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Stand mixer or wooden spoon
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooling rack
  • Cookie scoop or piping bag

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • Pinch of salt (optional)
  • Optional: 1 tsp almond extract, citrus zest, or chocolate for dipping

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • Cream butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
  • Add eggs and vanilla extract; mix until fully incorporated.
  • Fold in flour and salt until a soft dough forms; chill 15–30 minutes.
  • Scoop or pipe dough onto baking sheets, spacing cookies 2 inches apart.
  • Bake 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Rotate sheets halfway through for even baking.
  • Cool on baking sheet 2–3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Dough can be frozen for later baking; bake from frozen for fresh cookies anytime.
  • Add optional flavorings such as almond extract, citrus zest, or spices for a personalized twist.
  • Dip cooled cookies in chocolate or glaze for an extra indulgent treat.
  • Avoid overbaking—cookies continue to crisp as they cool.
Keyword buttery cookies, crisp cookies, homemade wafers, nostalgic desserts, vanilla wafers