Shortbread Cookies Recipe: Easy 5-Step Guide for Tender, Cozy Treats
These classic shortbread cookies are buttery, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Made with simple pantry staples, they come together in under 30 minutes for a cozy treat perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-22 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Scottish
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest (optional)
- 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped toasted nuts, such as pecans or almonds (optional)
- Extra powdered sugar, for dusting
- Melted chocolate, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, until light and fluffy.
- Mix in vanilla extract and salt until just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Gradually add flour, about 1/2 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until the dough just comes together. If using optional add-ins (zest, nuts, chips), fold them in gently.
- Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Pat into a rectangle about 1/2-inch thick. Cut into fingers, squares, or rounds. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing 1 inch apart. Prick tops with a fork for classic shortbread look.
- If dough is sticky, chill in the fridge for 10 minutes before cutting.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, until edges are just golden (tops should remain pale).
- Cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Dust with extra powdered sugar while warm, if desired.
Notes
For gluten-free cookies, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free, substitute vegan butter. Chilling the dough helps with shaping and prevents spreading. Do not overmix after adding flour for the most tender texture. Cookies can be customized with citrus zest, chocolate chips, or nuts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 40
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Protein: 1
Keywords: shortbread cookies, easy cookies, buttery cookies, classic shortbread, holiday cookies, tea cookies, quick dessert, homemade cookies