Shortbread Recipe

Shortbread recipe, with its delightfully crumbly, buttery texture, is a classic cookie recipe that’s loved worldwide. Originating from Scotland, this simple yet decadent treat has captured the hearts (and taste buds!) of many. Known for its rich, buttery flavor and soft, crumbly texture, shortbread is a go-to cookie that’s perfect with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Best of all, it requires only three primary ingredients, making it one of the easiest baked treats you can prepare at home.

Whether you’re looking to create a cozy dessert or searching for a recipe to impress friends and family, this shortbread recipe is perfect for you.

A Brief History of Shortbread Recipe:

Shortbread is thought to date back to 12th-century Scotland, initially developed as a form of sweetened bread that was dried and hardened to increase its shelf life. Over the centuries, bakers began to refine the recipe, replacing yeast with butter and shifting from a bread-like texture to the crumbly, rich consistency we recognize today. The popularity of shortbread grew, and by the 16th century, it had become a staple in Scottish households and a favorite treat enjoyed during holidays like Christmas and Hogmanay (Scottish New Year’s Eve). Today, shortbread continues to be a beloved classic in Scotland and beyond.

Shortbread Recipe

Pinklady

Shortbread is thought to date back to 12th-century Scotland, initially developed as a form of sweetened bread that was dried and hardened to increase its shelf life. Over the centuries, bakers began to refine the recipe, replacing yeast with butter and shifting from a bread-like texture to the crumbly, rich consistency we recognize today.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Course Snack

Cuisine Scotland

Servings 16 Cookies

Calories 100 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or stand mixer (optional)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Rolling Pin
• Cookie cutter or knife
• Cooling rack

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• Optional: A pinch of salt, if using unsalted butter
• Optional: 1 tsp vanilla extract or 1 tbsp powdered sugar for dusting after baking

See also  Homemade Scone Recipe

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. You can do this by hand or use a mixer for quicker results.
• Gradually add the flour to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough will be a bit crumbly—this is normal for shortbread.
• Gather the dough into a ball with your hands. If it feels too dry and isn’t coming together, you can add a tiny splash of water, but only as needed.
• Place the dough on a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) thickness. Thicker dough will make softer cookies, while thinner dough will yield crisper shortbread.
• Use a cookie cutter or a knife to cut the dough into your preferred shapes. Traditionally, shortbread is cut into rectangles or rounds, but feel free to get creative!
• Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown. Avoid over-baking, as shortbread should remain pale.
• Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust them with powdered sugar if desired.

Video

Keyword Shortbread Recipe

Similar Recipes You’ll Love:

– Almond Shortbread – Replace a portion of the flour with almond flour for a nuttier flavor.
– Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread – After baking, dip the ends of each cookie in melted chocolate and allow to set.
– Lemon Zest Shortbread – Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a refreshing citrus twist.
– Earl Grey Tea Shortbread – Infuse the dough with a tablespoon of finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves for a unique tea-flavored cookie.
– Gingerbread Shortbread – Add a teaspoon of ground ginger and a pinch of cinnamon to give your cookies a warm, spicy flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Shortbread Recipe:

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, but reduce or skip the additional salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty shortbread.

2. Can I make shortbread without a mixer?

Absolutely! You can cream the butter and sugar by hand. It just takes a bit more effort.

3. How do I make my shortbread softer or crunchier?

For softer cookies, make them thicker and bake for a shorter time. For crunchier cookies, roll them thinner and bake a bit longer.

4. How should I store shortbread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It keeps well for about a week.

5. Can I freeze shortbread dough?

Yes, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

6. Why did my shortbread turn out too dry?

This can happen if there’s too much flour or if the butter was not soft enough. Ensure accurate measurements and soften butter at room temperature before mixing.

7. Can I add flavoring extracts to shortbread?

Definitely! Vanilla, almond, or even peppermint extracts can be added for a fun twist.

8. How can I prevent my shortbread from spreading?

Chill the dough for 15-30 minutes before baking to help it hold its shape.

9. Why is my shortbread dough too crumbly?

Shortbread dough is naturally crumbly, but if it’s too difficult to handle, try adding a teaspoon of water at a time until it holds together.

10. Can I make gluten-free shortbread?

Yes! Substitute the flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a similar result.

Conclusion:

This shortbread recipe is a fantastic option for those who love classic, buttery cookies that melt in the mouth. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can have a delicious homemade treat ready in no time. Whether enjoyed plain, dusted with sugar, or dressed up with additional flavors, shortbread is a versatile recipe that’s hard not to love.

YouTube Video Credits:
Yummy Kitchen Recipe