Description
Classic Shortbread Cookies are buttery, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth treats perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients like unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, flour, and salt, these cookies are a traditional Scottish delight that are easy to prepare and bake to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookies Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which ensures a tender cookie texture.
- Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse aromatic flavor into the dough.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing carefully until a soft, cohesive dough forms without overworking it.
- Shape Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters or slice into rectangles for uniform cookies.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the cut cookies on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart to allow for even baking and slight spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes or until the edges are just barely golden, indicating they are perfectly baked without overcooking.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, preserving their delicate texture.
Notes
- For a festive touch, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and sprinkle with chopped nuts or holiday sprinkles for added flavor and decoration.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness and crispness.
