Shortbread Cookies are a timeless classic, blending simplicity and indulgence into every buttery, crumbly bite. These cookies, with their melt-in-your-mouth texture and golden hue, are perfect for everything from holiday gatherings to quiet afternoons with tea. Made with just a handful of ingredients, their beauty lies in their delicate balance of sweetness and richness.
Serve them alongside a dollop of Lemon Curd for a tangy, citrusy contrast, or add a generous swirl of Whipped Cream to elevate their decadence. These pairings turn this humble cookie into a dessert worth savoring.
What makes this recipe a favorite? It’s incredibly versatile. You can cut the dough into festive shapes for the holidays, drizzle them with chocolate for a touch of elegance, or keep them classic with a light dusting of sugar. Plus, they store beautifully, making them ideal for gifting or prepping ahead.
Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too)
- Buttery goodness: Every bite is rich, crumbly, and utterly satisfying.
- Simple to make: With just a few pantry staples, these cookies come together effortlessly.
- Holiday-friendly: Customize shapes and decorations to suit the season.
- Crowd-approved: A universal favorite that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat.
Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Equipment
- Stand mixer with paddle attachment
- Mixing bowl
- Plastic Wrap
- Sharp Knife
- Baking sheet
- Silicone mat or parchment paper
- Fork or skewer
- Wire cooling rack
Ingredients
- 10 tbsp unsalted butter 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 extract in a stand mixer.
- Mix in confectioners’ sugar and salt until combined.
- Add flour while beating on low, scrape the bowl, and mix until smooth.
- Shape dough into a rectangle, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Slice chilled dough into ½-inch slices.
- Arrange slices on a lined baking sheet, spacing them 1 inch apart.
- Use a fork or skewer to create patterns on top.
- Bake for 10 minutes, rotating halfway.
- Cool on a wire rack.
Variations that Will Surely Excite You!
- Chocolate Dipped
After baking, dip one end of each cooled cookie into melted chocolate. Let them set on parchment paper for a luxurious finish. - Citrus Infusion
Add 1 tablespoon of finely grated lemon, lime, or orange zest to the dough for a bright, tangy twist. - Nutty Shortbread
Mix in ½ cup of finely chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds before shaping the dough. - Lavender Vanilla
Add 1 teaspoon of dried culinary lavender to the dough for a fragrant and elegant flavor profile. - Espresso Twist
Mix 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder into the flour for a subtle coffee aroma. - Spiced Delight
Incorporate ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon or cardamom into the flour for a warm, spiced kick. - Almond Lovers’ Delight
Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract, and sprinkle slivered almonds on top before baking. - Jam-Filled
Use your thumb to make an indentation in each slice before baking, then fill with a dollop of jam for a thumbprint shortbread. - Salted Caramel Drizzle
Once cooled, drizzle the cookies with caramel sauce and sprinkle a pinch of sea salt for a sweet and salty combination. - Herbal Twist
Incorporate 1 teaspoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme into the dough for a savory, gourmet touch.
