Classic Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Introduction
Shortbread cookies are a timeless treat known for their buttery, crumbly texture and subtle sweetness. Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee, these simple cookies require just a few basic ingredients and little effort.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar until creamy and smooth.
- Step 2: Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, stirring until the dough comes together into a smooth ball.
- Step 3: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Step 4: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the cookies are pale golden and tender to the touch. Allow to cool before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a rich flavor, use high-quality unsalted butter and chill the dough briefly before rolling.
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or finely grated lemon zest to the dough for a subtle twist.
- Sprinkle a little sugar on top of the cookies before baking for extra crunch and sweetness.
Storage
Store shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They also freeze well; place them in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To refresh, thaw at room temperature or warm gently in a low oven before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce or omit additional salt in the recipe since salted butter already contains salt.
Why do shortbread cookies sometimes turn out hard?
Overbaking or using too much flour can make cookies hard. Bake until just pale golden and handle the dough gently to maintain tenderness.
PrintClassic Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Classic Shortbread Cookies are buttery, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth treats made from a simple three-ingredient dough. Perfect for teatime or any occasion, they offer a delicate sweetness and crumbly texture that delights cookie lovers of all ages.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Shortbread Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (240 g)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (227 g)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 g)
Instructions
- Mix Dough: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Gradually add the flour and mix until the dough just comes together, taking care not to overwork it to keep the cookies tender.
- Shape Cookies: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thick. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters or simply slice into rectangles or wedges.
- Bake: Place the cut dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 18-20 minutes or until the edges are just beginning to turn a pale golden color but the cookies remain tender.
- Cool: Remove from oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up while maintaining their crumbly texture.
Notes
- Use unsalted butter to control the salt level in these cookies.
- Do not overbake; shortbread should remain pale for the best texture.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to the dough.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Keywords: shortbread cookies, classic cookies, buttery cookies, simple cookie recipe, teatime treats
