Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Shortbread Cookies. These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are easy to make and perfect for any occasion!

Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Cookies:
  • 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar (also known as icing sugar)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the Topping (optional):
  • Granulated sugar for sprinkling
  • Melted chocolate for dipping or drizzling (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Cream Butter and Sugar:

• In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
• Mix in the vanilla extract if you’re using it.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough will be crumbly.

4. Shape the Cookies:

• Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Use your hands to bring it together into a smooth ball.
• Roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, or cut into rectangles or squares with a knife.

5. Bake:

• Place the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle a little granulated sugar on top of each cookie.
• Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

6. Cool:

• Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. Add Toppings (optional):

• If you’d like, you can dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate or drizzle chocolate over them for added decoration.

Tips:

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Flavor Variations: You can add lemon zest, almond extract, or other flavorings to customize your shortbread.

These Shortbread Cookies are delightful on their own or can be enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy your baking!