Description
Classic buttery shortbread cookies are a simple yet elegant treat, known for their rich buttery flavor and delicate crumb. Made with just a few basic ingredients, these cookies are perfect for tea time, gifting, or enjoying anytime.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Citrus zest (optional)
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips or nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Stir in any optional ingredients like vanilla extract or citrus zest until combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt (if using) to the butter mixture. Mix until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
- Shape the buttery shortbread dough into a 1/2-inch thick slab and cut into your desired shapes. Alternatively, press the dough into a baking dish and score it into squares.
- Place the shaped buttery shortbread cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
- Let the buttery shortbread cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For best results, use high-quality butter.
- Avoid overmixing the dough to prevent tough cookies.
- Chilling the dough before baking helps the cookies hold their shape.
- Bake until the edges are lightly golden; overbaking can reduce tenderness.
- Experiment with shapes and patterns using a fork for a traditional look.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Buttery shortbread dough freezes well for later use.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Scottish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: N/A
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: N/A
- Cholesterol: N/A