Perfect Shortbread Cookies: A Timeless Recipe with 10 Delicious Variations

Discover the art of making perfect shortbread cookies with this classic recipe. Plus, explore ten unique ways to customize your shortbread for every occasion!

Yields: 24 cookies

Servings: 12-24

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch

Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup (65g) powdered sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour

• One teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add the vanilla extract and salt, and mix until combined.

4. Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough comes together. It may appear crumbly at first, but keep mixing until it forms a smooth dough.

5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut into desired shapes.

6. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.

7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

8. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

• Chill the dough: Chilling the dough before baking helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents spreading.

• Use high-quality butter: The flavor of shortbread relies heavily on the butter, so use the best quality you can find.

• Avoid over-mixing: Over-mixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the dough comes together.

10 Ways to Customize Your Shortbread:

1. Chocolate-Dipped: Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt.

2. Lemon Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.

3. Herb-Infused: Incorporate finely chopped rosemary or lavender into the dough.

4. Espresso Shortbread: Add 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder to the dry ingredients.

5. Nutty Crunch: Mix in 1/2 cup of finely chopped pecans or almonds.

6. Spiced Shortbread: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the dough.

7. Orange Glaze: Drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and fresh orange juice.

8. Almond Shortbread: Substitute 1/4 cup of the flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor.

9. Vanilla Bean: Replace the vanilla extract with the seeds from one vanilla bean for an intense vanilla flavor.

10. Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle with homemade caramel sauce once cooled.

Perfect Shortbread Cookies: A Timeless Recipe with 10 Delicious Variations