Ingredients
For the Shortbread Dough
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (90g) powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Toppings
- Coarse sugar
- Melted chocolate
- Chopped nuts
- Sprinkles
- Lemon or orange zest
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
- Rich buttery flavor
- Crisp yet tender texture
- Only 5 basic ingredients
- Easy to customize
- Perfect for gifting
- Great make-ahead cookie
Instructions
Step 1: Cream the Butter
In a large mixing bowl, beat:
- Softened butter
- Powdered sugar
for 2–3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
Mix in:
- Vanilla extract
until combined.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
Add:
- Flour
- Salt
Mix on low speed until a soft dough forms.
The dough may appear crumbly at first but will come together as you continue mixing.
Avoid overmixing.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
Shape into a disk about 1 inch thick.
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Chilling helps prevent spreading and improves texture.
Step 4: Roll and Cut
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness.
Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
Alternatively, cut into simple rectangles or wedges for a traditional look.
Step 5: Decorate
Transfer cookies to the prepared baking sheets.
If desired, prick the tops with a fork for a classic shortbread appearance.
Sprinkle with coarse sugar if using.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 18–22 minutes.
The cookies should be:
- Pale golden around the edges
- Firm to the touch
- Light in color
Avoid overbaking to maintain a tender texture.
Step 7: Cool
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Traditional Scottish Shortbread Method
For a more authentic version:
Press the dough into a 9-inch round pan.
Score into wedges.
Prick with a fork.
Bake for 35–40 minutes.
Cut along the score lines while still warm.
Flavor Variations
Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread
Dip half of each cooled cookie in melted chocolate.
Allow to set before serving.
Lemon Shortbread
Add:
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
to the dough.
Orange Shortbread
Add:
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
Almond Shortbread
Replace vanilla extract with:
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
Espresso Shortbread
Add:
- 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
Lavender Shortbread
Add:
- 1 teaspoon culinary lavender
for a floral twist.
Tips for Perfect Shortbread
Use High-Quality Butter
Since butter is the star ingredient, choose the best butter available.
Chill the Dough
Cold dough produces crisp, well-defined cookies.
Measure Flour Correctly
Too much flour can make shortbread dry.
Don’t Overwork the Dough
Mix just until combined for the most tender texture.
Storage
Room Temperature
Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freezer
Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
You can also freeze the dough and bake later.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy shortbread cookies with:
- Tea
- Coffee
- Hot chocolate
- Fresh berries
- Ice cream
- Lemon curd
They also make wonderful gifts during the holiday season.
Nutrition (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 135
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 4g
