Buttery and rich, Shortbread Cookies have their origins in Scotland. This classic treat is crafted with only three main ingredients: flour, butter, and sugar. Follow along with step-by-step pictures and video to learn how to make these melt-in-your-mouth cookies.

Shortbread cookies always remain a special place in my baking journey because it was one of the first few cookie recipes that I tried and turned out perfect during my initial days of baking. Also these cookies are mittu’s most favorite so make it often for her snack time.

What are cookies made with shortbread?

Shortbread Cookies are rich, melt in the mouth butter cookies made with just 3 main base ingredients flour, butter and sugar. These cookies originated from Scotland and unlike other cookies these do not use any leavening agents like baking powder or baking soda. These cookies are high in fat so the texture is crumbly and tender making it just melt in your mouth.

Making shortbread cookies is a breeze. You can mix the ingredients by hand or use an electric mixer. Start by combining sugar and butter, then add vanilla and flour until the dough forms. After chilling the dough, shape and bake it – it’s really that easy.

This recipe is simple, easy, and fast to make without needing any extra baking powder or baking soda. How amazing is that?! It’s also great for kids. With only 3 main ingredients, these cookies are truly fantastic.

You have the option to prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the freezer. When it’s time to bake, you can either slice or shape the dough and bake as desired. These cookies have a mild sweetness and are incredibly tasty, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s no surprise that they are a favorite among children.

In the past, shortbread cookies were typically reserved for holiday occasions such as Christmas and New Year’s Eve. However, due to their increased popularity, they are now enjoyed year-round. These cookies can be created in a variety of shapes and sizes.

To make the best shortbread cookies, it is important to use high-quality butter as it is a crucial ingredient. No extra flavoring is necessary, although vanilla extract can be added if desired. Shortbread is sometimes referred to as “Royal Shortbread” and can be enjoyed plain or with icing.

You have the option of creating either shaped cookies or icebox cookies using the same dough. To slice the cookies, start by forming a log of dough, wrapping it in cling wrap, and chilling it before baking.

Video

What makes this recipe so lovable?

• Only three primary basic components are required: flour, butter, and sugar.

• No rising agents such as baking powder or baking soda.

• This is a straightforward and efficient recipe.

• This text cannot be reworded.

• Great for giving as a present during the holiday season.

Shortbread Cookie Variations

There are many different ways to make these cookies, such as adding nuts or chocolate, dipping them in melted chocolate, using royal icing or chocolate glaze, and topping them with sprinkles. Here are the ones I have personally tried:

Ingredients

• The recipe calls for all-purpose flour or maida, but wheat flour can also be used. Variations of the recipe using wheat flour are provided.

• Softened butter is typically used at room temperature, but it is also acceptable to use chilled butter. To soften chilled butter, a whisk can be used.

• Powdered sugar, also known as icing sugar, is a common ingredient in traditional cookies. However, it can be substituted with regular powdered sugar.

• Vanilla flavoring is not necessary, but it adds a subtle taste to the cookies.

• If you’re using unsalted butter, add salt. If you’re using salted butter, omit the salt.

Step-by-step instructions for creating Shortbread Cookies

In a bowl, combine 1 cup of flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir briefly and set aside. If using salted butter, do not add additional salt.

2. Cream butter with an electric mixer until smooth. If your butter is at room temperature, you can skip this step.

Add 1/4 cup of icing sugar to a sieve and thoroughly sift it. Icing sugar can often have clumps, so it is best to sift it before using.

Mix together butter and sugar until they become light and fluffy. Then, add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla essence.

Whisk briefly before incorporating the flour mixture.

Utilize the electric mixer and whisk for a brief period. Utilize a large bowl as the whisking process may result in spills.

7. Next, utilize a spatula to combine the ingredients.

Gently mix together using your fingertips. Avoid kneading.

Combine to create a pliable dough.

Gently press the dough flat to make it easier to roll after chilling. Cover the dough with cling wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Once the dough has been chilled, it will become firm. Now, remove the cling wrap.

Put it between two sheets of parchment paper and use a rolling pin to flatten it to a thickness of 1/4 inch.

Take the cookie cutter and coat it with flour to prevent it from sticking when you cut out the shape.

Cut the dough into various shapes and then preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius for 10 minutes.

You have the freedom to use various shapes and sizes as desired.

16.Remove it carefully.

17.Collect the scraps.

One more time, roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and use cookie cutters to create shapes. Continue this process until all the dough is used.

Poke with a fork for aesthetic purposes only.

Place the mixture on a baking tray that has been lined with parchment paper. If the cookies are too soft, you can refrigerate the tray for 10 minutes before baking to allow them to firm up.

Bake at 180°C in a preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden.

The shortbread cookies have finished baking. Allow them to cool on a wire rack before storing.

Enjoy shortbread cookies!

Expert Tips

• Mix the flour with salt, if desired. Combine thoroughly and set aside.

• Mixing butter and sugar until fluffy is essential, whether you are using a hand whisk, electric beater, or stand mixer. It is especially important to make sure the butter is softened if it was chilled.

• Combine the ingredients to form the dough using your fingers, without kneading. Remember to refrigerate the dough before cutting it. If the dough becomes too soft and sticky, chill it for a few more minutes.

• Shaping – You can either cut them into shapes or make a log and slice them. If the cookies are soft they will spread too much while baking so make sure the cookies are chilled and hard before baking.

• When baking, make sure to only bake until the edges become golden. Do not bake for too long. After 12 minutes, check the progress and continue baking, keeping in mind that every oven is unique.

FAQS

Is it permissible to use butter that has been salted?

You can utilize salted butter, but do not include additional salt in the flour.

What is the best way to preserve shortbread cookies and how long can they be stored?

Shortbread cookies can be stored in a sealed container or a zip lock bag. They will last for approximately 5 days at room temperature and up to 10 days in the refrigerator.

Is it possible to freeze these cookies?

It is possible to freeze shortbread cookies for up to three months by storing them in an airtight container or zip lock bag with parchment paper between each cookie. To serve, thaw the cookies in the refrigerator overnight and optionally warm them in the oven.

How can I determine if the cookies are finished baking?

As the cookies bake, their edges will turn golden and a delicious buttery scent will fill the room. They will be soft to the touch when first removed from the oven, but will harden after cooling.

What is the reason behind the name “shortbread cookies”?

These cookies are soft and have a crumbly texture, hence their name “shortbread cookies.”

Please feel free to contact me at [email protected] if you have any further inquiries about this Shortbread Cookies Recipe. Also, be sure to follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, Youtube, and Twitter.

Have you tried making Shortbread Cookies using this recipe? Please share your thoughts on how it turned out. Don’t forget to tag us on Instagram @sharmispassions and use the hashtag #sharmispassions.

📖 Recipe Card