Classic Buttery Shortbread Cookies Recipe

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Shortbread cookies are a timeless treat, celebrated for their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicate sweetness. Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee, these cookies are simple yet luxurious. This classic recipe highlights the rich, buttery flavor of shortbread with a hint of vanilla, and for those who love a touch of indulgence, a chocolate dip takes them to the next level. Let’s dive into the joy of making these easy, irresistible cookies from scratch!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, cold and diced into small cubes
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 3/4 cups (248g) unbleached all-purpose flour (scooped and leveled)
  • 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped (optional, for dipping)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Shortbread Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold, cubed butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Incorporate the ingredients with a pastry cutter or fork, mixing until the texture resembles small, uneven crumbs.
  2. Add the vanilla extract and continue mixing.
  3. Gradually add the flour, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Avoid over-mixing; the dough should be soft but not sticky.

Step 2: Chill and Shape the Dough

  1. Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and enhances the cookies’ texture.
  2. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Place a sheet of parchment paper on a baking tray to prevent sticking.
  3. Once chilled, roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Press a cookie cutter into the dough to create your chosen shapes.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

  1. Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Be careful not to over-bake, as shortbread should be light in color and delicate.
  3. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Optional Chocolate Dip

  1. If you’d like to add a chocolate finish, melt the semi-sweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
  2. Dip each cooled cookie halfway into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off.
  3. Place the chocolate-dipped cookies on parchment paper and let the chocolate set before serving.

Conclusion:

These Classic Buttery Shortbread Cookies are a delightfully simple treat with a rich, buttery flavor that makes them a favorite for all occasions. Whether you enjoy them plain or with a touch of chocolate, these cookies are a perfect addition to your homemade dessert collection. Enjoy with your favorite hot beverage or share them with friends—they’ll be a hit!