Description
This buttery shortbread cookies recipe is simple, rich, and perfect for holidays or everyday treats. Made with only a handful of ingredients, these cookies are soft, crumbly, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Ingredients
10 tbsp unsalted butter, at room temperature (142g)
1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (180g)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (optional)
Instructions
1. In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat butter and vanilla extract until creamed.
2. Add confectioners’ sugar and salt; mix until combined.
3. Scrape the bowl and add flour while mixing on low. Scrape again and beat until dough forms.
4. Shape the dough into a rectangular prism. Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C).
6. Slice dough into 1/2-inch thick pieces using a sharp knife.
7. Place slices at least 1 inch apart on a lined baking sheet.
8. Use a fork or skewer to create decorative patterns on top.
9. Bake for about 10 minutes, rotating the tray halfway through.
10. Remove from oven and transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool.
Notes
Shortbread dough can be made ahead and kept in the fridge for a week or in the freezer for a month.
Cut butter into smaller chunks and microwave at 50% power in 5-second bursts to soften quickly.
Try adding toasted nuts or spices to customize your batch.
Let kids create fun patterns on top of the cookies with forks or skewers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Cookies Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British, Scottish