Whipped Shortbread Cookies

Introduction

There’s something magical about the simplicity of these Whipped Shortbread Cookies. Their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and subtle sweetness make them irresistible. When I baked them for the first time, they vanished from the table before I could even grab a second one. My family loved the delicate crumb and festive sprinkles, making these cookies an instant holiday favorite. Perfect for any occasion, they’ll quickly become a staple in your home too.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Sprinkles (for decorating)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or baking mats.
2. Beat Butter and Sugar
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together for at least 5 minutes. The mixture should be very light, fluffy, and aerated.
3. Mix in Dry Ingredients
   Gradually add the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix just until combined, avoiding overmixing.
4. Form the Cookies
   Lightly dust your hands with cornstarch to prevent sticking. Shape the dough into small balls, using about 2 teaspoons to 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie.
5. Press and Decorate
   Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets. Press down gently on each with a fork dipped in cornstarch. Decorate the tops with festive sprinkles.
6. Bake
   Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the tops of the cookies look set. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories per serving: 90 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 10-15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• As a holiday treat: Pair with hot cocoa, tea, or coffee.
• For dessert trays: Include them in your assortment of cookies for festive gatherings.
• Gift boxes: Place these cookies in decorative tins or bags as homemade gifts.
• Party favors: Individually wrap them for take-home treats.
• Snack time: Enjoy them as a sweet pick-me-up during the day.

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Additional Tips

1. Soften butter properly: Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for the perfect whipped texture.
2. Beat thoroughly: Whipping the butter and sugar for at least 5 minutes creates a lighter, airier dough.
3. Use high-quality butter: The rich flavor of good butter makes a difference in these simple cookies.
4. Decorate creatively: Experiment with colored sugars, edible glitter, or mini chocolate chips instead of sprinkles.
5. Cool completely: Allow cookies to cool fully before storing to maintain their texture.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the cooled cookies.
• Nutty Delight: Add finely chopped nuts like pecans or almonds to the dough.
• Citrus Twist: Mix in 1 tsp of lemon or orange zest for a refreshing flavor.
• Spiced Cookies: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced aroma.
• Festive Shapes: Use cookie cutters for special occasions and holidays.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a cup of herbal tea for a cozy evening snack.
• Add to a dessert platter with other holiday-themed treats.
• Top with whipped cream and fresh berries for an elegant touch.
• Include in a care package for loved ones.
• Pair with ice cream as a unique garnish.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing Dough: Shape the dough into balls, place on a baking sheet, and freeze. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: Place cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. Separate layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQ

1. Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe.

2. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely. Refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.

4. What if my cookies spread too much?
Ensure your butter isn’t overly softened, and chill the dough for 15 minutes before baking.

5. Can I use a stand mixer?
Yes, a stand mixer with a paddle attachment works perfectly for this recipe.

6. Why are my cookies crumbly?
Avoid overmixing and ensure the dough is well combined without being dry.

7. What’s the purpose of cornstarch?
Cornstarch adds a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture to the cookies.

8. Can I skip the sprinkles?
Yes, or replace them with another topping like colored sugar or chopped nuts.

9. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just ensure your mixing bowl is large enough to handle the increased volume.

10. How do I know when the cookies are done?
The tops should look set, but avoid browning to maintain their soft texture.

Conclusion

Whipped Shortbread Cookies are the epitome of simple yet indulgent treats. With their buttery, tender texture and festive appearance, they’re a joy to make and even better to eat. Whether for holiday celebrations, everyday snacks, or thoughtful gifts, these cookies are sure to delight. Try them today, and experience the magic of a classic recipe that never goes out of style.

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