Description
Whipped Shortbread Cookies are light, buttery, and delightfully tender cookies made by whipping butter and sugar until fluffy before gently combining with dry ingredients. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are easy to shape, decorated with colorful sprinkles, and baked at a low temperature to achieve a delicate texture. Perfect for tea time or festive occasions, they bring a classic, nostalgic treat to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Decoration
- Sprinkles (for decorating)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
- Beat Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer for at least 5 minutes until the mixture is very fluffy and aerated. This step is crucial for the light texture of the cookies.
- Mix in Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the dough to maintain tenderness.
- Form the Cookies: Dust your hands with cornstarch to prevent sticking, then shape the dough into small balls using about 2 teaspoons to 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie, depending on your preferred cookie size.
- Press and Decorate: Place the dough balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheets. Press the top of each cookie gently with a fork dipped in cornstarch to prevent sticking and create a classic pattern. Sprinkle a few colorful sprinkles over each cookie for decoration.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until the tops are set but not browned. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use softened butter for easier whipping and better cookie texture.
- Do not overmix the dough once dry ingredients are added to keep cookies tender.
- Press the fork gently to avoid flattening the cookies too much.
- Baking at a lower temperature helps maintain the pale color and delicate crumb.
- Sprinkles are optional but add a fun, festive touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
