When it comes to timeless treats, nothing beats the simplicity and elegance of classic buttery shortbread cookies. Tender, crumbly, and rich with pure buttery flavor, shortbread is the kind of recipe every home baker needs in their repertoire. With just four simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can recreate the nostalgic flavor of Grandma’s kitchen—warm, comforting, and irresistibly delicious.
These shortbread cookies are perfect for holiday gifting, afternoon tea, dessert platters, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee. Let’s dive into this foolproof recipe!
🍪 Why You’ll Love This Shortbread Recipe
✔ Only 4 ingredients needed
✔ No eggs, no fuss—just pure buttery goodness
✔ Perfect crumbly, tender texture
✔ Stores beautifully and freezes well
✔ Ideal for cookie tins, gift boxes, and celebrations
🧈 Ingredients You’ll Need
As shown in the image:
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225 g unsalted butter, softened
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100 g granulated sugar
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250 g all-purpose flour
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1 g salt
Optional: extra sugar for sprinkling
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 — Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light, creamy, and pale.
This step ensures a perfectly tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 2 — Add the Dry Ingredients
Sift in the flour and salt.
Mix gently using a spatula or stand mixer on low speed until a soft dough forms.
👉 Do not overmix. Shortbread should be crumbly but cohesive.
Step 3 — Shape the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.
Roll it out to about ½ inch (1.3 cm) thickness.
Use a cookie cutter, knife, or fluted cutter to shape individual biscuits.
Step 4 — Chill the Cookies
Place the shaped cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes before baking.
This helps them keep their shape and prevents spreading.
Step 5 — Bake
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
Bake the cookies for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are barely golden.
Shortbread should remain pale, not browned.
Step 6 — Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool completely on the tray.
Sprinkle with a touch of sugar if desired.
Serve with tea, coffee, or a tall glass of milk.
✨ Tips for Perfect Buttery Shortbread
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Use high-quality butter — the flavor depends on it.
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Do not overbake — pale color = perfect texture.
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Chilling is essential for clean edges.
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Sift flour to ensure a fine, delicate crumb.
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Add vanilla, lemon zest, or almond extract for flavor variations.
