Shortbread cookies are a timeless classic known for their rich, buttery flavor and delicate, crumbly texture. Made with just a few simple ingredients, these cookies are deliciously tender and melt in your mouth with every bite. Their elegance and simplicity make them perfect for tea-time, festive celebrations, or homemade gifts.
Shortbread Cookies:
These cookies originated in Scotland, where butter-heavy treats were prized and celebrated. Shortbread’s unmatched texture comes from its unique balance of butter, sugar, and flour, with no leavening agents. Whether enjoyed plain or dipped in chocolate, shortbread cookies always bring a luxurious buttery goodness that feels wonderfully indulgent.
History:
Shortbread dates back to medieval Scotland, evolving from a medieval biscuit-like bread enriched with butter and sugar. By the 16th century, Mary Queen of Scots made shortbread popular as a refined delicacy served during festivals and celebrations. The recipe has remained remarkably simple through the centuries, loved for its pure ingredients and crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Shortbread Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar or powdered sugar
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 160°C (325°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add flour and salt; mix until a soft dough forms. Add vanilla if using.
- Flatten dough into a disk, wrap, and chill for 20–30 minutes to firm up.
- Roll dough to ½-inch thickness and cut into rectangles, circles, or wedges.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, until pale golden at the edges.
Notes
- Use high-quality butter for the best flavoiur.
- Powdered sugar creates a more tender texture.
- Chill dough to prevent spreading and maintain clean edges.
- Do not overbake—shortbread should remain pale.
- Adding cornstarch (2 tbsp) can increase softness.
Tips for Shortbread Cookies:
- Press dough into a pan for easier slicing and perfectly even pieces.
- Dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate for an elegant finish.
- Add citrus zest or almond extract for flavor variations.
- Use cookie cutters for festive shapes during holidays.
- Let cookies cool completely to get their signature crisp-crumbly texture.
FAQ’s for Shortbread Cookies:
Q: Why is my shortbread too crumbly?
The dough may need more mixing or a touch more butter.
Q: Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce or omit added salt.
Q: Can the dough be made ahead?
Absolutely—refrigerate for 3 days or freeze for 2 months.
Q: Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes, but keep add-ins minimal to maintain texture.
Q: Why did my shortbread turn brown?
It was baked too long or the oven was too hot. Shortbread should stay pale.
Conclusion:
Shortbread cookies are a delightful combination of buttery richness and delicate crumb. With their simple ingredients and classic flavor, they are perfect for any occasion—whether festive, elegant, or everyday. This traditional recipe guarantees tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies every time.