Classic Shortbread Cookies – Indulge in the heavenly delight of our Classic Shortbread Cookies! These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats are the perfect combination of simplicity and decadence. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a batch of cookies that will impress your loved ones and leave them craving for more. Join us on this delightful journey as we share the recipe that has become a beloved staple in our household.
Picture this: a cozy afternoon with a cup of tea, the aroma of freshly baked cookies filling the air, and the joyous laughter of my family echoing through the house. These Classic Shortbread Cookies have become an inseparable part of our cherished moments together. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple evening treat, my husband and our little family can’t resist these delicate, buttery morsels. The story behind this recipe began when I stumbled upon my grandmother’s handwritten recipe card, worn with love and time. It quickly became our go-to, and now, it’s my pleasure to share it with you.
Why This Classic Shortbread Cookie Recipe Will Steal Your Heart?
- Irresistible Butteriness: These cookies embody the perfect balance of rich butter flavor and a tender, crumbly texture that melts in your mouth.
- Simple Pantry Staples: With just a handful of ingredients, including butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and all-purpose flour, you can create magic in your kitchen.
- Versatile and Fun: Cut them into traditional rounds or get creative with various shapes using cookie cutters or molds.
- Subtle Sweetness: The delicate sweetness of these cookies will satisfy your cravings without overwhelming your taste buds.
- Optional Sparkle: For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle each cookie with large crystal sugar before baking, adding a delightful crunch and a hint of visual appeal.
Ingredients:
- 227g (1 cup) softened butter
- 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- 15-30ml (1/2 to 1 Tbsp.) milk, only if needed
- Large crystal sugar for garnish (optional)
Directions:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the vanilla extract and salt to the butter mixture, and mix until well combined.
Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, add a tablespoon of milk and continue mixing until it reaches the texture of dry Play-Doh.
On a floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of 1/2 inch.
Use a cookie cutter to cut the dough into 2-inch rounds or desired shapes. Alternatively, press the dough into cookie molds for added flair.
Place the cookies on ungreased cookie sheets and refrigerate them for 2 hours to help them retain their shape.
Preheat your oven to 350˚F (180˚C).
Remove the cookies from the fridge 5 minutes before baking. If desired, sprinkle each cookie with a touch of large crystal sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and sparkle.
Bake the cookies for approximately 10 minutes, or until the bottoms start to turn a light golden color.
Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack and let them cool for 15 minutes before serving.
Notes:
- These cookies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot cocoa.
- For a festive twist, you can add a hint of citrus zest or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain their freshness.
In conclusion, these Classic Shortbread Cookies are a timeless delight that will captivate your taste buds and warm your heart. With their buttery richness, delicate texture, and simple yet irresistible flavors, they have the power to create unforgettable moments and cherished memories. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion, sharing them with loved ones, or simply treating yourself to a little indulgence, these cookies are sure to bring joy to your kitchen and smiles to everyone’s faces. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and embark on a delightful journey of baking these heavenly treats. Once you experience the magic of these Classic Shortbread Cookies, they will become a beloved recipe in your own household, creating a tradition that will be passed down for generations to come. Happy baking and savor every delicious bite!
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be substituted, we highly recommend using butter for the best flavor and texture. Butter contributes to the rich, buttery taste that makes these cookies truly special.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Just make sure to let the dough soften slightly at room temperature before rolling and cutting.
Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, with parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.
How can I make gluten-free shortbread cookies?
To make gluten-free shortbread cookies, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular all-purpose flour. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately according to the package instructions.
Classic Shortbread Cookies
Ingredients
- 227 g 1 cup softened butter
- 100 g 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 250 g 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- 15-30 ml 1/2 to 1 Tbsp. milk, only if needed
- Large crystal sugar for garnish optional
Instructions
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and salt to the butter mixture, and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, add a tablespoon of milk and continue mixing until it reaches the texture of dry Play-Doh.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of 1/2 inch.
- Use a cookie cutter to cut the dough into 2-inch rounds or desired shapes. Alternatively, press the dough into cookie molds for added flair.
- Place the cookies on ungreased cookie sheets and refrigerate them for 2 hours to help them retain their shape.
- Preheat your oven to 350˚F (180˚C).
- Remove the cookies from the fridge 5 minutes before baking. If desired, sprinkle each cookie with a touch of large crystal sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and sparkle.
- Bake the cookies for approximately 10 minutes, or until the bottoms start to turn a light golden color.
- Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack and let them cool for 15 minutes before serving.
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