Imagine a cookie so delicate, so buttery, that it practically dissolves on your tongue the moment it touches your lips. This isn't just any cookie - this is the legendary Scottish shortbread, a timeless treat that has been delighting taste buds for generations. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a touch of baking magic, you'll transform ordinary ingredients into extraordinary moments of pure culinary bliss that will have your family and friends begging for more.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Scottish
Serves: 16 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Remove butter from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to allow it to soften to room temperature. Ensure butter is pliable but not melted.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add powdered sugar to the butter, continuing to mix on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Incorporate vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture, blending until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together all-purpose flour and salt to ensure even distribution and remove any lumps.
- Slowly add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough cookies.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times to create a cohesive dough.
- Roll the dough to approximately 1/4 inch thickness and cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters or a knife.
- Carefully transfer cut cookies to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden but not brown.
- Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, store shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- • Temperature is key: Ensure your butter is truly at room temperature - soft but not melted. This creates the perfect texture. • Don't overwork the dough: Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep your shortbread tender and crumbly. • Use high-quality butter for the most luxurious flavor - it makes a significant difference. • For extra elegance, consider dusting your cooled shortbread with powdered sugar or dipping half in melted chocolate. • Store in an airtight container to maintain that classic, crisp texture for up to 5 days. • For precise, clean-cut cookies, chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before rolling and cutting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 130kcal
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
