These Shortbread Cookies are a classic treat that’s simple to make and incredibly delicious. They are buttery, crumbly, and melt-in-your-mouth, perfect for an afternoon tea or a simple indulgence.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (125g) Unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (85g) Powdered sugar
- 2 1/4 cups (280g) All-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) Vanilla sugar (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Flour and Vanilla Sugar: Gradually add the flour and vanilla sugar to the butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie. Flatten each ball slightly with a fork or your fingers.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Serve as a sweet snack for kids’ lunchboxes or parties.
- Dip in melted chocolate or drizzle with icing for extra indulgence.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Do not overmix the dough; just combine until it forms.
- Keep an eye on the cookies as baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Provides a source of energy from carbohydrates.
- Contains some calcium and protein from dairy.
Dietary Information:
- Contains dairy.
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour.
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple and easy to make.
- Requires minimal ingredients.
- Deliciously buttery and crumbly.
- Perfect for a quick and easy treat.
Conclusion:
These Shortbread Cookies are a classic treat that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With their simple ingredients and buttery flavor, they are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy these delightful cookies with a cup of tea or coffee, or simply savor them on their own.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Can I use a different type of flour?
- Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or a combination of flours for a slightly different flavor.
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Can I add flavorings to the dough?
- Yes, you can add extracts like almond extract, lemon extract, or orange extract to the dough.
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Can I decorate the cookies?
- Yes, you can decorate the cookies with icing, sprinkles, or chocolate chips.
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Can I freeze these cookies?
- Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
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How can I make these cookies more festive?
- Add food coloring to the dough for colorful cookies. Use cookie cutters to shape the dough into different shapes.
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What if the dough is too crumbly?
- Add a teaspoon or two of cold water to the dough and mix until it comes together.
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Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.
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How do I know when the cookies are done?
- The edges of the cookies should be lightly golden brown.
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Can I use unsalted butter?
- Yes, you can use unsalted butter. If using salted butter, reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe.
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What other variations can I try?
- Experiment with different flavors by adding chopped nuts, dried fruits, or spices to the dough.