Shortbread cookies are a classic treat known for their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture. With just a few simple ingredients, these cookies are rich and flavorful, making them a perfect accompaniment to tea or coffee. Whether served plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar, shortbread cookies are elegant, easy to make, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (65g) cornstarch
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
• Granulated sugar, for sprinkling (optional)

Preparation

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). This step is crucial for the cookie’s texture.
4. Add the Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix until just combined. The dough will be crumbly but should come together when pressed.
5. Shape the Dough:
   • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together. Roll the dough out to about ¼-inch thickness.
   • Use a cookie cutter to cut the dough into your desired shapes. Alternatively, you can roll the dough into a log, chill it, and slice it into rounds for a more rustic look.
6. Bake the Cookies:
   • Place the cookies onto the prepared baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle a light dusting of granulated sugar on top of the cookies before baking for a bit of extra sweetness and sparkle.
   • Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The center should remain pale.
7. Cool the Cookies:
   • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success

• Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to handle, wrap it in plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes before rolling it out.
• Flavored Shortbread: For a twist, add citrus zest (like lemon or orange) to the dough or incorporate finely chopped herbs such as lavender or rosemary for a fragrant variation.
• Use a Cookie Press: If you have a cookie press, this is an ideal dough to use for making intricate designs.
• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. You can also freeze the dough (wrapped tightly) for up to 2 months and bake when needed.

Fun Twists

• Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread: After baking, dip half of each cookie into melted chocolate and let it set for a decadent twist.
• Caramel Shortbread: After baking, spread a layer of caramel sauce over each cookie, and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for a sweet and salty treat.
• Almond Shortbread: Add ½ cup of finely chopped almonds to the dough for a nutty variation that adds a nice crunch.

Final Touch

Shortbread cookies are wonderfully simple yet indulgent. Their buttery flavor and crisp texture make them a treat that never goes out of style. Whether you enjoy them plain or with a creative twist, these cookies are always a hit at gatherings, as a gift, or just for a quiet moment with your favorite hot drink.

Enjoy baking and savoring these classic shortbread cookies! 🍪