Description
Classic Shortbread Cookies feature a tender, buttery texture with a delicate sweetness and a subtle vanilla aroma. These simple, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are perfect for any occasion, combining minimal ingredients to create a comforting treat enjoyed by all ages.
Ingredients
Scale
Shortbread Dough
- 10 tbsp 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)
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Vanilla: In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the room-temperature unsalted butter and pure vanilla extract together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, creating the base for your dough.
- Add Sugar and Salt: Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and optional kosher salt to the creamed butter mixture. Continue mixing until all ingredients are well combined and a smooth batter forms.
- Incorporate Flour: Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing, then add the all-purpose flour while mixing on low speed. Scrape the bowl again and continue mixing just until the dough comes together, being careful not to overwork it.
- Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a rectangular prism, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until firm. This chilling process should take at least one hour to ensure the dough is easy to cut and maintains its shape when baked.
- Prepare Oven and Slice Dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Remove the chilled dough and use a sharp knife to cut it into 1/2 inch thick slices, preparing them for baking.
- Arrange Slices on Baking Sheet: Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper, spacing them at least one inch apart to allow for even baking.
- Create Pattern: Use a fork or skewer to gently press an indentation pattern onto the top of each slice. This adds a decorative touch and helps the cookies bake evenly.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure even color and texture.
- Cool on Wire Rack: Once baked to a light golden color, transfer the cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- Room temperature butter is essential for proper creaming and dough texture.
- Chilling the dough prevents spreading and helps achieve crisp cookies.
- Use confectioners’ sugar for a smooth dough and tender crumb.
- You can add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness, but it’s optional.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Shortbread, Cookies, Butter Cookies, Classic Dessert, Vanilla Shortbread
