Shortbread
Shortbread is a classic Scottish biscuit made with just butter, sugar, and flour, offering a rich, buttery flavor and a crumbly texture. This simple recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels and results in delicious treats that pair perfectly with tea or coffee.
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
1/2 cup butter1/2 cup sugar
1 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
Shortbread is a classic Scottish biscuit known for its simplicity, buttery flavor, and delightful crumbly texture. With just three basic ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned cooks looking for a quick, delicious treat. Follow these steps to create a batch of delectable shortbread that will melt in your mouth.
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a medium-sized bowl, add the room-temperature butter.
- Using an electric mixer or a wooden spoon, beat the butter until it's light and creamy.
- Gradually add the sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is fluffy and well combined.
- Sift the all-purpose flour to break up any lumps and ensure it's light and airy.
- Gradually add the sifted flour to the butter-sugar mixture.
- Continue mixing until the flour is fully incorporated and you have a smooth dough. If the dough feels too crumbly, you can gently knead it with your hands until it comes together.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.
- Roll it out to about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick. You can also press the dough into a 9-inch (23 cm) square baking pan for thicker, more traditional shortbread.
- If desired, use a knife or cookie cutter to cut the dough into your desired shapes (e.g., rectangles, squares, or rounds).
- Place the shaped dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the shortbread is just starting to turn a light golden color around the edges. The center should remain pale.
- Keep an eye on them, as baking times can slightly vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the shortbread.
- Remove the shortbread from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the shortbread to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, store them in an airtight container to maintain their crisp texture.
- Your classic shortbread is now ready to be enjoyed. Serve with tea, coffee, or as a delightful treat on its own.
Making shortbread is a delightful experience that results in a timeless treat perfect for any occasion. With these tips and the right ingredients, you’ll be able to create the perfect shortbread every time. Enjoy your homemade shortbread with a hot cup of tea or coffee, or share it with friends and family for a simple yet satisfying dessert.
Shortbread FAQ:
Bake the shortbread in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Check for a light golden color around the edges, while the center should remain pale.
Shortbread is done when it starts to turn light golden around the edges. The center should still be pale. Be cautious, as baking times may vary based on oven and dough thickness.
You can use a 9-inch (23 cm) square baking pan for thicker shortbread, or shape and cut the dough directly on a baking sheet for individual pieces.
For best results, stick with butter as it gives the shortbread its signature flavor and texture. If necessary, you can try using margarine, but this may affect the overall flavor and texture.
Store the cooled shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain its crisp texture for up to a week.
Tips:
- Use high-quality butter.: Since butter is a primary ingredient, using high-quality, unsalted butter will greatly enhance the flavor of your shortbread.
- Chill the dough.: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps prevent spreading and ensures the shortbread maintains its shape.
- Do not overwork the dough.: Overworking the dough can lead to tough shortbread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Score the dough.: Before baking, gently score the dough with a knife to create even slices or shapes. This will make cutting the shortbread easier once it's baked.
- Use parchment paper.: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper will prevent the shortbread from sticking and ensure even baking.
Nutrition per serving
18 ServingsCalories 90kcal
Protein 0.89g
Carbohydrates 11g
Fiber 0.21g
Sugar 6g
Fat 5g
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