Description
Classic Shortbread Cookies are buttery, crumbly, and melt in your mouth. This traditional Scottish dessert features a simple blend of butter, sugar, and flour, making it a timeless treat perfect for any occasion or holiday celebration.
Ingredients
Scale
Shortbread Dough
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and baking sheet: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which creates the perfect texture for tender shortbread.
- Add vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the dough with a subtle aromatic flavor.
- Incorporate flour and salt: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing just until the dough comes together without overworking to keep the cookies tender.
- Roll out dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll to about ½-inch thickness for even baking.
- Shape the cookies: Use cookie cutters or slice the dough into squares or rectangles per your preference, then place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 15–18 minutes or until the edges just start to turn golden, ensuring a perfect crumbly texture.
- Cool: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps them set properly.
Notes
- For extra flavor, dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate or sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking.
- Chill the dough before rolling for easier handling and cleaner cuts.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week to keep them fresh and crisp.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
