Easy Shortbread Cookie Recipe: The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion
Shortbread cookies are a delightful classic, loved for their buttery, crumbly texture and melt-in-your-mouth goodness. This easy shortbread cookie recipe ensures even baking beginners can achieve perfectly golden, delicious cookies. Let's get started!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. It’s all about the quality of the butter for that rich, shortbread flavor!
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter is key for easy mixing and a smooth dough.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps bind the ingredients.
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: This gives the cookies their structure.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the buttery flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For an added touch of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps for perfectly baked shortbread cookies every time.
Step 1: Cream Together Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Use an electric mixer for best results, but a sturdy whisk and some elbow grease will also work!
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour and salt to the creamed butter mixture. Mix until just combined – be careful not to overmix, which can result in tough cookies. If using, add the vanilla extract at this stage.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a roughly 1-inch thick circle or rectangle. You can use a rolling pin, but patting it is often easier for this recipe.
Step 4: Cut and Bake
Using a sharp knife or cookie cutters, cut the dough into your desired shapes. Arrange the cut cookies onto an ungreased baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them as ovens vary!
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, enjoy your delicious homemade shortbread cookies!
Tips for Shortbread Success:
- Use cold butter: While you need softened butter for mixing, starting with slightly colder butter can help prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Chill the dough: For even better results, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before cutting and baking. This helps prevent spreading and enhances the crumbly texture.
- Experiment with flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or other spices for a unique twist. You can also add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the dough.
Serving Suggestions:
These simple shortbread cookies are perfect on their own, or paired with a cup of tea, coffee, or your favorite beverage. They also make a wonderful addition to any dessert platter or holiday cookie exchange.
This easy shortbread recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike. Enjoy the process and the delicious results! Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!
