Shortbread Cookies

Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ Cups Butter at Room Temperature , salted
  • ¾ Cup Confectioners’ Sugar
  • 2 ¼ Cups All Purpose Flour
  • ¾ Cup Cornstarch
  • Flavorings and Toppings: (optional but delish)
  • 2 teaspoon Pure vanilla extract or Lemon extract or Orange extract
  • ¼ Cup Sprinkles (of choice) (I used non-pareils)

Instructions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl beat butter and confectioners’ sugar for 3-4 minutes. Don’t skimp on the beating time for light textured cookies. Add flavorings at this point (if adding) and give it a whirl too.
  2. Next add in sifted flour and cornstarch in the bowl and beat only till combined.
  3. Scoop and roll into 36 equal sized cookie balls. Place cookie dough balls on a pre-lined baking tray or on a large plate (coated with little flour) to avoid the dough balls from sticking to the plate. Press their tops with a cornstarch/flour dipped fork and top with sprinkles.
  4. Now chill the dough balls for about 2 hours in fridge or till they are very firm to touch. Pro Tip: To speed up this process, you may chill the dough balls in freezer until firm.
  5. Let dough balls chill in the fridge/freezer till you preheat the oven. I usually bake 12 cookies on a tray at a time.
  6. When ready to bake preheat oven at 300 deg F and bake cookies for 19-20 minutes. Or till their tops look set.
  7. Allow to cool on the baking tray.

FAQs:

  • What are Shortbread Cookies?
    • Shortbread cookies are a classic Scottish biscuit known for their crumbly texture and buttery flavor. They typically consist of three main ingredients: butter, sugar, and flour, often with a pinch of salt for balance. Shortbread cookies are traditionally shaped into rounds, rectangles, or wedges.
  • How do I make Shortbread Cookies?
    • To make Shortbread Cookies, start by creaming together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add flour and any desired flavorings (such as vanilla extract or citrus zest) until a dough forms. Roll out the dough, cut into desired shapes, and bake at a low temperature until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool before enjoying.
  • Can I add flavors or variations to Shortbread Cookies?
    • Yes, Shortbread Cookies are versatile and can be customized with various flavors and additions. Popular variations include adding chocolate chips, nuts (like chopped pecans or almonds), or incorporating citrus zest, lavender, or spices like cinnamon or cardamom for a unique twist.
  • How should I store Shortbread Cookies?
    • Store Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you live in a humid climate, placing a piece of bread in the container can help absorb moisture and keep the cookies fresh longer. Shortbread cookies can also be frozen for up to three months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
  • What makes Shortbread Cookies different from other types of cookies?
    • Shortbread Cookies are distinct from other cookies due to their high ratio of butter to flour, resulting in a crumbly and tender texture. They have a simple, delicate flavor that allows the buttery richness to shine through without being overly sweet. Unlike many cookies that rely on leavening agents like baking powder or soda, shortbread cookies maintain their shape and texture without rising or spreading much during baking.

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