Pin Recipe Buttery, crumbly, and delicately sweet, these classic shortbread cookies rely on just three simple ingredients to create a melt-in-your-mouth treat perfect for any occasion.
I first made these shortbread cookies for a family afternoon tea and was amazed at how quickly they disappeared. The delicate texture and rich buttery flavor always make them a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter (softened): 1 cup (225 g)
- Powdered sugar: ½ cup (60 g)
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 g)
Instructions
- Prep the oven:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar:
- In large bowl, cream softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add flour:
- Gradually mix in flour until a soft, crumbly dough forms.
- Knead the dough:
- Turn dough onto lightly floured surface and gently knead until just combined.
- Shape cookies:
- Roll dough to about ½ inch thickness. Cut into rectangles, rounds, or desired shapes.
- Arrange on sheet:
- Place cookies on baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
- Prick with fork:
- Prick each cookie several times for classic shortbread look.
- Bake:
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, until edges are just starting to turn golden.
- Cool:
- Let cool on sheet 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack until fully cooled.
Pin Recipe My children love helping cut out shapes, making it a fun weekend family baking activity. Shortbread cookies have now become a beloved tradition for our holiday gatherings.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, electric mixer or wooden spoon, rolling pin, cookie cutter or knife, baking sheet, parchment paper, wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (butter) and gluten (wheat flour). Double-check ingredient labels if you have allergies or sensitivities.
Nutritional Information (per cookie)
Calories: 100, Total Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 11 g, Protein: 1 g
Pin Recipe Classic shortbread cookies are delightful with tea or coffee and keep well for sharing any time. Bake a batch and enjoy these buttery treats with loved ones.
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes shortbread crumbly?
The high butter content combined with minimal mixing and no leavening agents creates the tender, crumbly texture characteristic of shortbread.
- → Can I add flavors to the dough?
Yes, adding vanilla extract or a pinch of fine sea salt enhances the flavor without altering the delicate balance.
- → How thick should the dough be rolled out?
Roll the dough to about ½ inch (1.25 cm) thickness to achieve a soft yet crisp bite after baking.
- → Why prick the cookies before baking?
Pricking with a fork prevents puffing by allowing steam to escape, maintaining the classic shortbread appearance and texture.
- → How should shortbread cookies be stored?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to keep them fresh and crisp.
- → Can I dip shortbread in chocolate?
Yes, dipping cooled cookies in melted chocolate adds flavor and visual appeal for a delightful twist.