Save Buttery, crumbly, and delicately sweet, these classic shortbread cookies rely on just three simple ingredients to create a melt-in-your-mouth treat perfect for any occasion.
I remember making these cookies for the first time as a child with my grandmother. The aroma in the kitchen and the satisfaction of pressing the dough into shapes made it a tradition I still cherish today.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (225 g), softened
- Powdered sugar: ½ cup (60 g)
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 g)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar:
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the flour:
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft, crumbly dough forms.
- Knead the dough:
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead until it just comes together.
- Shape the cookies:
- Roll the dough out to about ½ inch (1.25 cm) thickness. Cut into rectangles, rounds, or shapes as desired.
- Arrange on baking sheet:
- Place the cookie shapes on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Prick cookies:
- Prick each cookie a few times with a fork for a classic shortbread appearance.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden (do not brown).
- Cool:
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Save Every holiday, our family gathers and enjoys these shortbread cookies while sharing stories and laughter. They bring a sense of warmth and comfort to any celebration.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, electric mixer or wooden spoon, rolling pin, cookie cutter or knife, baking sheet, parchment paper, wire rack
Nutritional Information
Each cookie has about 100 calories, 6 g total fat, 11 g carbohydrates, and 1 g protein.
Flavor Variations
For extra flair, add vanilla extract or a pinch of fine sea salt to the dough. Dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate or sprinkle with coarse sugar before baking.
Save Enjoy these classic shortbread cookies with your favorite tea or gift them for a delightful homemade treat.
Common Questions
- → What ingredients create the classic shortbread texture?
Softened butter, powdered sugar, and all-purpose flour blend to create the tender, crumbly texture that defines classic shortbread.
- → How can I tell when the shortbread is perfectly baked?
Look for edges turning a light golden color without browning, typically after 18–22 minutes at 325°F (160°C).
- → What are some variations to enhance the flavor?
Adding vanilla extract, a pinch of fine sea salt, or dipping cooled cookies in melted chocolate adds flavorful twists.
- → Why is it important to prick the dough with a fork before baking?
Pricking helps release steam during baking, maintaining the classic shortbread appearance and preventing puffing.
- → How should the shortbread be stored after baking?
Store cooled shortbread in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to one week.