If you’re craving a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s as simple as it is delicious, this Shortbread Cookie Recipe is calling your name. Imagine tender, crumbly cookies with just the right hint of sweetness that pair perfectly with your afternoon tea or coffee. Trust me, once you try these, your cookie jar will never be empty!
Why You’ll Love Shortbread Cookies
Here’s the scoop on why these cookies are a must-bake:
Versatile: Perfect for holidays, gift-giving, or a cozy snack anytime.
Budget-Friendly: Made with just a handful of pantry staples you probably already have.
Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean you’ll have cookies in no time.
Customizable: Add vanilla, citrus zest, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flair.
Crowd-Pleasing: Crisp edges and tender centers make these a family favorite.
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Ingredients in Shortbread Cookies
Let’s get to the basics:
Butter: The star of the show, giving that rich, tender crumb.
Sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the buttery flavor.
Flour: Provides structure and that classic shortbread crumbly texture.
Salt: A pinch to enhance all the flavors.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions for Shortbread Cookies
Ready to bake? Here’s how to do it:
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a bowl, beat softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This creates the perfect texture for your cookies.
Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in flour and salt until the dough comes together. Don’t overwork it—you want to keep it tender!
Shape the Dough
Press the dough into a baking pan for a classic shortbread bar, or roll and cut into shapes for cookies.
Chill the Dough
Pop the dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up—this helps keep the cookies from spreading too much.
Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake at 325°F (165°C) until the edges turn a light golden brown. Keep an eye on them; shortbread can go from perfect to overdone quickly!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: About 24 cookies
Calories per serving: Approximately 100
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
How to Serve Shortbread Cookies
Here are some tasty serving ideas:
- With a cup of tea or coffee: Classic and comforting.
- Dipped in chocolate: For an indulgent twist.
- With fresh berries: Adds a fruity contrast.
- Gift-wrapped: Makes a sweet homemade present.
Additional Tips
- Use high-quality butter: It makes all the difference.
- Don’t skip chilling: It keeps the texture just right.
- Try adding lemon zest or vanilla extract: For subtle flavor boosts.
- Store in an airtight container: Keeps cookies fresh for up to a week.
- For crispier cookies: Bake a little longer, but watch carefully.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use salted butter?
A1: You can, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe.
Q2: Can I freeze the dough?
A2: Yes! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.
Q3: How do I prevent cookies from spreading?
A3: Chill the dough well and avoid over-mixing.
Q4: Can I make gluten-free shortbread?
A4: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
Q5: Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
A5: Absolutely, for a fun variation!
Q6: Why are my shortbread cookies crumbly?
A6: That’s normal—it’s part of their charm. But if too crumbly, avoid over-baking and over-mixing.
Q7: Can I roll the dough thinner?
A7: Yes, just adjust baking time accordingly.
Q8: How long do they keep?
A8: Up to a week stored airtight at room temperature.
Q9: Can I sprinkle sugar on top before baking?
A9: Yes, it adds a lovely sparkle and crunch.
Q10: What’s the best pan for baking shortbread?
A10: A light-colored metal pan helps bake evenly.
Conclusion
This Shortbread Cookie Recipe is all about simple, buttery goodness that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cookies deliver that cozy homemade comfort every time. Ready to get baking? Your cookie jar (and taste buds) will thank you!
Print
Shortbread Cookie Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic buttery shortbread cookies with a tender, crumbly texture — perfect for tea time or festive occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and roll out to about 1/2-inch thickness.
- Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters or slice into rectangles.
- Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet and prick with a fork to prevent puffing.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use European-style butter.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Optional: sprinkle with sugar before baking for a sparkling finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg