Chicago Public School Butter Cookies

Ah, the legendary Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Butter Cookies! These simple yet iconic cookies were a staple in school cafeterias for decades, beloved for their crisp edges, tender centers, and rich buttery flavor. While the exact CPS recipe is a closely guarded secret, here’s a faithful homemade version that nails that nostalgic taste.

Chicago Public School Butter Cookies

(Makes about 2 dozen cookies)

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened (must be real butter—no substitutes!)

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• ½ tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp salt

(Optional: A pinch of nutmeg or lemon zest for subtle depth, as some recall a hint of spice.)

Instructions

1. Cream Butter & Sugar

   • In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).

   • Add egg and vanilla, mixing until just combined.

2. Dry Ingredients

   • Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt (and nutmeg/lemon zest if using).

   • Gradually add to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms (do not overmix).

3. Shape & Chill

   • Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on an ungreased baking sheet.

   • Flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass or fork (CPS cookies were often smooth, not crisscrossed).

   • Chill dough for 30 minutes (or freeze for 15) to prevent spreading.

4. Bake

   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

   • Bake for 12-15 minutes, until edges are just golden (centers should stay pale).

   • Let cool on the sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a rack.

Key Secrets for Authenticity

• Butter is non-negotiable: Margarine won’t replicate that CPS richness.

• Texture: Underbake slightly for that tender-but-crisp bite.

• Size: Keep cookies small (1-2 inches), just like the cafeteria trays.

Nostalgia Note

These cookies were famously served in Chicago schools from the 1960s through the 1990s, often alongside cartons of milk. Some swear they detected a faint “institutional” flavor—likely from vanillin (synthetic vanilla) or a touch of almond extract, which you can add (¼ tsp) if you’re chasing that exact memory.

Pair with a cold glass of milk and pretend you’re back in the lunchroom! 🍪🥛

Want a chocolate version? Some recall CPS serving “butter cookies with a Hershey’s kiss” variant—just press a kiss into the center after baking!