Shortbread Cookies Recipe Simple Steps for Classic Homemade Treats

Why You’ll Love This Shortbread Cookies

Shortbread cookies are a timeless favorite that bring warmth and simplicity to your kitchen. This recipe stands out for its ease, letting even beginner bakers whip up a batch quickly. With just a few basic items, you can create treats that feel indulgent but don’t take all day.

Beyond being simple, these shortbread cookies offer real perks for your health and lifestyle. They use wholesome elements like butter for a creamy texture while keeping sugar levels in check. This makes them a smart choice for anyone watching what they eat, without losing that classic taste.

What really makes this recipe shine is how flexible it is for all kinds of needs. You can tweak it for gluten-free diets or vegan swaps, so everyone at the table can join in. The buttery flavor with a hint of vanilla will make these cookies a go-to for any occasion.

Shortbread cookies are versatile enough to fit into busy days or lazy weekends. They’re perfect for sharing with family or gifting to friends, adding a touch of joy to everyday moments. Try this recipe once and you’ll see why it’s a staple in so many homes.

Essential Ingredients for Shortbread Cookies

Getting the right ingredients is key to making perfect shortbread cookies. This recipe uses straightforward items that you likely have on hand. Let’s break it down so you can prepare with confidence.

Main Ingredients

• 10 tablespoons 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)

These ingredients work together to create the signature crumbly texture of shortbread cookies. Start with room-temperature butter for easy mixing and a smooth dough.

For special options, you can adapt this recipe easily. If you’re going vegan, swap the butter for plant-based margarine. For gluten-free baking, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. For lower calories, try natural sweeteners like stevia instead of sugar to keep things light.

How to Prepare the Perfect Shortbread Cookies: Step-by-Step Guide

Diving into baking shortbread cookies is fun and straightforward. Follow these steps to get great results every time. First, gather your tools and ingredients to make the process smooth.

Gathering and Mixing

Begin by setting up your stand mixer with a paddle attachment. Beat the unsalted butter and pure vanilla extract until they turn creamy and smooth. This step helps build the base flavor of your shortbread cookies.

Next, add the confectioners’ sugar and kosher salt, mixing until everything blends well. Scrape down the bowl to ensure no lumps remain. Then, slowly incorporate the all-purpose flour on low speed, scraping again and mixing until fully combined.

Shaping and Baking

Shape the dough into a rectangular prism and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill it in the fridge for at least one hour to firm up. Once chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and cut the dough into 1/2 inch thick slices.

Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them at least one inch apart. Use a fork or skewer to add fun indent patterns on top. Bake for about 10 minutes, rotating the sheet halfway through for even cooking.

Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before enjoying them. The total prep time is just 15 minutes, cooking takes 20 minutes, and you’re done in 35 minutes total. This yields about 16 cookies, making it ideal for a quick treat. For more cookie ideas, check out our rhubarb shortbread cookies recipe on the site.

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Shortbread Cookies

Shortbread cookies are easy to adjust for different tastes and needs. Whether you’re avoiding gluten or cutting calories, small changes can make a big difference. Let’s look at some simple swaps to try.

For the main parts like butter, use coconut oil or vegan margarine if you want a plant-based version. Instead of all-purpose flour, almond flour works well for low-carb diets or gluten-free options. These tweaks keep the cookies tasty and inclusive.

When it comes to flavors, add a bit of citrus zest like lemon for a fresh kick. Spices such as cinnamon can bring warmth, or try almond extract in place of vanilla for something new. For sweetness, maple syrup is a great natural choice that fits low-calorie goals.

These modifications help everyone enjoy shortbread cookies. Experimenting is part of the fun, so don’t hesitate to mix things up based on what you have at home. Remember, for more inspiration, visit our lemon oatmeal cookies page.

Mastering Shortbread Cookies: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, take your shortbread cookies to the next level. Use chilled tools and mix the dough gently to keep that perfect crumbly feel. This technique ensures your cookies stay tender and not tough.

Try adding fun elements like finely chopped nuts or citrus zest to change up the taste. For a holiday twist, spices such as cinnamon can add depth. Presentation matters too, so dust with powdered sugar or drizzle chocolate on top for a nice look.

Planning ahead is smart for busy times. Make the dough in advance and freeze it for up to a month, then bake fresh when needed. Kids love helping with patterns using a fork, making it a great family activity. For more baking fun, learn about the origins of shortbread to add a story to your treats.

How to Store Shortbread Cookies: Best Practices

Keeping your shortbread cookies fresh is easy with the right methods. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay good for up to one week. This keeps them crisp and flavorful without much effort.

For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature. If they lose their crunch, warm them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes.

Meal prep like this means you always have treats on hand. Bake a big batch and portion them out for quick snacks. It’s a simple way to enjoy shortbread cookies anytime. Check out health benefits of butter to understand why it’s a key ingredient.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Shortbread Cookies

Shortbread Cookies

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• Author: Brandi Oshea
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: About 16 cookies 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

🍪 Shortbread Cookies offer a classic homemade treat with a buttery and tender texture that’s simple to make.
🏡 This recipe uses straightforward steps and common ingredients, making it accessible for all home bakers to enjoy a timeless delight.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

10 tablespoons 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)

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Instructions

1-Gathering and Mixing: Begin by setting up your stand mixer with a paddle attachment. Beat the unsalted butter and pure vanilla extract until they turn creamy and smooth. This step helps build the base flavor of your shortbread cookies.

Next, add the confectioners’ sugar and kosher salt, mixing until everything blends well. Scrape down the bowl to ensure no lumps remain. Then, slowly incorporate the all-purpose flour on low speed, scraping again and mixing until fully combined.

2-Shaping and Baking: Shape the dough into a rectangular prism and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill it in the fridge for at least one hour to firm up. Once chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and cut the dough into 1/2 inch thick slices.

Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them at least one inch apart. Use a fork or skewer to add fun indent patterns on top. Bake for about 10 minutes, rotating the sheet halfway through for even cooking.

Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before enjoying them. The total prep time is just 15 minutes, cooking takes 20 minutes, and you’re done in 35 minutes total. This yields about 16 cookies, making it ideal for a quick treat.

Notes

⏳ Dough can be made ahead and stored refrigerated up to 1 week or frozen up to 1 month; warm slightly before slicing.
🧈 Use room temperature butter for easy mixing; if needed, soften in microwave at 50% power in short bursts.
🌰 Add toasted nuts or spices to the dough for extra texture and flavor variation.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 168 kcal
• Sugar: 7 g
• Sodium: 109 mg
• Fat: 9.8 g
• Saturated Fat: 2.9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6.1 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 18.3 g
• Fiber: 0.6 g
• Protein: 1.6 g
• Cholesterol: 13.6 mg

Keywords: Shortbread cookies, Classic cookies, Homemade shortbread, Simple cookie recipe