If you’re on the hunt for an easy, satisfying dessert that never fails to impress, look no further than this Shortbread Cookies Recipe. These buttery, crisp cookies melt in your mouth and require only five simple ingredients—many of which you likely already have in your pantry. Perfect for any season, not just the holidays, these cookies pair beautifully with coffee or tea and are guaranteed to become a household favorite. Read on to discover pro tips, variations, and a step-by-step guide to creating these melt-in-your-mouth treats.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple Ingredients and Easy Preparation
This recipe uses only five pantry staples, making it perfect for quick and effortless baking.
Long Shelf Life
Shortbread cookies stay fresh for weeks when stored correctly, making them an excellent make-ahead option.
Versatile and Customizable
Add your favorite nuts, spices, or even a drizzle of chocolate to elevate this classic cookie.
Pro Tips for Perfect Shortbread Cookies
1. Make the Dough in Advance
- Why: Chilling the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to shape and cut.
- How to Store: Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap. It can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for a month. Allow it to thaw slightly before slicing.
2. Use Room Temperature Butter
- Butter at room temperature ensures even mixing, resulting in a smooth dough.
- Quick Tip: Forgot to take the butter out? Slice it into smaller pieces and microwave at 50% power for 5-second intervals, flipping as needed.
3. Get Creative with Add-Ins
- Enhance the flavor with toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans.
- Experiment with spices such as cinnamon or cardamom for a unique twist.
4. Perfect the Cookie Patterns
- Use a fork, skewer, or cookie stamp to create fun, decorative patterns on top of your cookies. This is a great way to get kids involved!
Ingredients
- 10 tbsp unsalted butter (142g), softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (180g)
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Shortbread Cookies
1. Cream the Butter
- Place the softened butter and vanilla extract into a stand mixer bowl.
- Use the paddle attachment to beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and creamy.
2. Add the Sugar
- Gradually add confectioners’ sugar to the creamed butter while mixing on low speed.
- Increase to medium speed until well incorporated. If adding salt, include it now.
3. Mix in the Flour
- Gradually add the flour, keeping the mixer on low speed.
- Scrape down the bowl’s sides to ensure even mixing. Continue until the dough is smooth.
4. Shape and Chill the Dough
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a rectangular prism.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour.
5. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
6. Slice the Dough
- Once chilled, remove the dough and slice it into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Keep slices uniform for even baking.
7. Prepare for Baking
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Place the slices at least 1 inch apart and press decorative patterns onto the tops using a fork or skewer.
8. Bake the Cookies
- Bake for 10 minutes or until the edges begin to turn golden brown. For crispier cookies, bake 1-2 minutes longer.
9. Cool and Enjoy
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
- Dip in melted chocolate for an indulgent twist.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a festive touch.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing Baked Cookies: Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Freezing Dough: Wrap well and freeze for up to a month. Thaw slightly before slicing and baking.
Nutrition Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 168 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 18.3g
- Protein: 1.6g
- Fat: 9.8g
- Cholesterol: 13.6mg
- Sodium: 109mg
Try These Variations
- Pistachio Shortbread: Add chopped pistachios for a nutty flavor.
- Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread: Dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate and let them set.
- Lemon Shortbread: Add lemon zest for a refreshing citrus twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Know When Shortbread is Cooked?
Shortbread cookies are ready when the edges begin to turn golden brown. For a crispier texture, leave them in the oven a few extra minutes, but keep a close eye to prevent over-baking.
Are Shortbread Cookies and Sugar Cookies the Same?
No, they’re quite different. While sugar cookies are lighter, sweeter, and include eggs and leavening agents, shortbread cookies are denser with a richer buttery flavor and a crisp texture.
Can You Make Dairy-Free Shortbread Cookies?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version. Adding a touch of coconut flour or maple syrup can also enhance the flavor.
Can I Use Salted Butter for This Recipe?
Yes, but omit the additional salt in the recipe. Unsalted butter is typically preferred for better control over the flavor.
Share Your Creations!
If you try this shortbread cookie recipe, let us know how it turned out in the comments below! Share your photos and variations—we love seeing your creations.
By following these tips and steps, you’ll have a batch of buttery, crisp shortbread cookies ready to impress. Happy baking!