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Classic Shortbread Cookies Recipe

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4 from 9 reviews

Classic shortbread cookies made with butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla, offering a tender, crumbly texture and delicate sweetness perfect for teatime or gifting.

Ingredients

Shortbread Cookies

  • 1 cup butter (softened)
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325° F and line two lightly colored baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and fluffed all-purpose flour. Mix on low speed until the mixture resembles crumbs that hold together when pressed.
  3. Form Dough and Cut Shapes: Gather the crumbly dough into a ball, then roll it out between parchment paper sheets to a thickness of about 1/3 to 1/2 inch. Cut into 3-inch circles or your preferred shapes and arrange them on the prepared baking sheets.
  4. Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the bottoms are just turning golden brown, ensuring a tender and crisp texture.
  5. Cool and Store: Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the hot baking sheets, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. Store in airtight containers for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • Be sure to fluff your flour before measuring to achieve accurate dry ingredient amounts.
  • Use lightly colored baking sheets to prevent cookies from browning too quickly on the bottom.
  • You can cut the dough into any shape you like, not just circles.
  • Make sure the butter is soft but not melted for the best texture.
  • These cookies can be stored in airtight containers at room temperature for up to 5 days.