Easy butter shortbread
Easy butter shortbread is a classic treat featuring a rich buttery flavor and crumbly texture, made with just three simple ingredients. This straightforward recipe ensures you have delightful homemade cookies ready in no time.
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
1 cup butter1 cup powdered sugar
3 cups all-purpose white wheat flour
Butter shortbread is a simple yet classic treat, known for its buttery flavor and crumbly texture. It's an excellent accompaniment to tea or coffee and can be enjoyed any time of the year. This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, requiring only three basic ingredients: butter, powdered sugar, and all-purpose flour. In no time, you'll have delicious homemade shortbread ready to delight your taste buds.
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer or a stand mixer on medium speed until it is creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Gradually add the flour to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing on low speed until the dough starts to come together. You may need to use a spatula or your hands towards the end to fully incorporate all the flour.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Bring the dough together into a ball, then flatten it into a disc. You can then roll the dough to a thickness of about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm).
Use a cookie cutter or a knife to cut the dough into your desired shapes. Alternatively, you can shape the dough into a rectangle and cut it into squares or rectangles. Place the shaped dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
To help the cookies maintain their shape, place the baking sheet with the dough in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes before baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges start to turn a golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.
Remove from the oven and let the shortbread cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, your butter shortbread is ready to be enjoyed! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
With just three ingredients and a straightforward method, this butter shortbread recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers. The key to its delectable flavor lies in the quality of butter and the simple balance of ingredients. By following the tips provided, you can ensure your shortbread turns out perfectly every time. Enjoy your homemade treat with family and friends or give them as thoughtful gifts during the holiday season.
Easy butter shortbread FAQ:
Bake the butter shortbread in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 18-22 minutes. Watch for the edges to turn a golden brown for doneness.
Store leftover shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should remain fresh for up to one week.
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary. Each ingredient plays a key role, so avoid substituting butter and powdered sugar.
You can use a standard baking sheet for shaping and baking the cookies. Ensure the dough pieces are spaced about an inch apart on the sheet.
The shortbread is done when the edges are a light golden brown. It's important not to over-bake them, as they should be soft and crumbly.
Tips:
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Do not overmix the dough to maintain the shortbread's crumbly texture.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before baking to help it maintain its shape.
- For a festive touch, consider adding a pinch of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of coarse sugar on top before baking.
- Use parchment paper to line your baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 900kcal
Protein 12g
Carbohydrates 110g
Fiber 2.81g
Sugar 40g
Fat 45g
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