Print

Classic Shortbread Cookies

A close-up stack of golden brown shortbread cookies with a classic dimpled pattern on top.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A simple and elegant shortbread cookie recipe with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, perfect for holidays or any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough will be crumbly.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently bring it together to form a cohesive ball. Do not overwork the dough.
  5. You can either pat the dough into a 1/2-inch thick round and cut into wedges, or roll it out and use cookie cutters.
  6. Place the shaped cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch between them.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should still be pale.
  8. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For a buttery Scottish shortbread, ensure you use good quality unsalted butter.
  • This is a simple 3-ingredient cookie base; you can add vanilla extract or citrus zest for variation.
  • To achieve a tender crumb, avoid overmixing the dough once the flour is added.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenslang.com/shortbread-cookies-tender-crumb/