If you’re a fan of buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies, shortbread is the way to go! These cookies are made with just 4 simple pantry staples, yet they deliver an irresistible flavor that might even make you dance while eating them. Whether you prefer them as bar cookies, rolled out for a special occasion, or just enjoying them in raw dough form, these cookies are versatile, delicious, and an absolute must-try!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened, for maximum buttery flavor)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dough:
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer for ease.
Add the flour and salt, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. You may need to finish mixing with your hands, but be careful not to overwork the dough.
3. Shape the Dough:
Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. If you prefer bar cookies, you can press the dough directly into the prepared baking sheet. For more traditional shortbread shapes, cut out the dough using cookie cutters or simply slice it into squares or rectangles.
4. Bake:
Transfer the dough (or dough shapes) to the baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the tops are just set. The key is to not overbake – they should stay a light golden color.
5. Cool:
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional Add-Ins and Variations:
- Vanilla or Almond Extract: Add 1/2 teaspoon of your favorite extract for an extra layer of flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate on top for a decadent twist.
- Dipping: Dip the edges of the cookies in melted chocolate or a sprinkle of sugar before baking for added flair.
Tips:
- Room Temperature Butter: Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature to ensure smooth mixing and the best texture.
- No Overmixing: Be careful not to overwork the dough, as that can result in tougher cookies.
- Chilling the Dough (optional): If you find the dough too soft to handle, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out and cut.
These shortbread cookies are so easy to make yet so flavorful. Their crisp, buttery texture makes them perfect for any occasion. You can enjoy them as-is or get creative with variations! They’re a true treat for shortbread lovers, and even those new to it will fall in love.