Description
Discover the rich, buttery delight of Classic Scottish Shortbread, a perfect addition to your Christmas cookie tray. This traditional recipe yields tender, crumbly cookies delicately sweetened and lightly golden baked to perfection. Ideal for holiday gifting and sharing, these shortbreads bring a nostalgic touch to festive celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for sprinkling)
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is light and creamy, ensuring even mixing.
- Mix in Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, stirring until a soft, cohesive dough ball forms without overworking the dough.
- Shape the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to a 1/2-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters or cut into traditional shapes such as rectangles or wedges.
- Chill the Dough: Transfer the shaped cookies onto the prepared baking sheet and chill them in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. This helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until the edges just start to turn a light golden color. Take care not to overbake to ensure a tender texture.
- Sprinkle with Sugar: Immediately after removing from the oven, sprinkle granulated sugar over the warm cookies to add a festive sparkle and slight sweetness.
- Cool and Store: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness.
Notes
- The dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days before rolling and cutting if you want to prepare in advance.
- Ensure butter is softened but not melted for best creaming results.
- Using superfine sugar for sprinkling can provide a more delicate finish.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture.
- Shortbread pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee and makes an excellent homemade gift.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Scottish
