Description
Classic shortbread cookies featuring a buttery, tender crumb and a delicate sweetness. These cookies are easy to make with simple ingredients and perfect for tea time or holiday baking.
Ingredients
Scale
Shortbread Cookie Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar using an electric mixer or by hand until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender texture.
- Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse the dough with a warm, sweet flavor.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the creamed mixture, stirring just until the dough comes together without overmixing to maintain tenderness.
- Roll Out Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll it to approximately 1/2-inch thickness, ensuring even baking.
- Cut Shapes: Use cookie cutters to cut out your preferred shapes or simply slice the dough into rectangles for a classic look.
- Prepare Cookies for Baking: Place the cut cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Prick each cookie with a fork gently to prevent puffing during baking.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden color, indicating that they are crisp and ready.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes to firm up. Then, transfer them carefully to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is softened but not melted for the best creaming result.
- Do not overmix the dough once flour is added to maintain a tender cookie.
- Pricking the cookies prevents them from puffing up and helps maintain their shape.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to one week.
- For added flavor, consider sprinkling a little sugar on top before baking or adding lemon zest to the dough.
