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 first baked this simple shortbread recipe on a rainy afternoon and was amazed by how quickly these cookies disappeared from the plate. They've since become a staple for holidays and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (225 g), softened
- Powdered sugar: ½ cup (60 g)
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 g)
Instructions
- Prep Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter & Sugar:
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add Flour:
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft, crumbly dough forms.
- Knead Dough:
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead until it just comes together.
- Roll & Cut:
- Roll dough out to about ½ inch (1.25 cm) thickness. Cut into rectangles, rounds, or shapes as desired.
- Arrange & Prick:
- Place cookie shapes on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 1 inch apart. Prick each cookie a few times with a fork.
- Bake:
- Bake in the oven for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges just start 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 One December evening, my niece insisted we bake these cookies together, creating unforgettable memories full of laughter and the irresistible aroma of warm shortbread.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, electric mixer or wooden spoon, rolling pin, cookie cutter or knife, baking sheet, parchment paper, wire rack
Flavor Variations
Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or a pinch of fine sea salt for a subtle twist, or dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate for extra flair.
Nutritional Information
Each cookie contains approximately 100 calories, 6 g total fat, 11 g carbohydrates, and 1 g protein.
Save Serve these classic shortbread cookies with tea or coffee for a simple treat everyone loves. They also make lovely homemade gifts for friends and family.
Recipe FAQ
- → What ingredients create the shortbread texture?
Softened butter, powdered sugar, and all-purpose flour combine to produce the crumbly and tender texture typical of traditional shortbread.
- → How should the dough be prepared before baking?
Cream the butter and sugar until fluffy, then gradually mix in flour to form a soft dough. Roll it to about half an inch thick and cut into desired shapes.
- → At what temperature and duration should the shortbread be baked?
Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 18 to 22 minutes until the edges start to turn golden but do not brown.
- → Can variations be added for flavor?
Yes, adding vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt can enhance the taste, and dipping cooled pieces in melted chocolate offers a delicious twist.
- → How should the shortbread be stored?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness and texture.