Delicate, buttery, and delightfully crisp, these Shortbread Cookies are a classic treat that never goes out of style. With just a few simple ingredients and your favorite flavoring—whether it’s vanilla, lemon, or a touch of cinnamon—these cookies are perfect for holidays, tea time, or anytime you want a sweet, satisfying bite. Their sandy texture and melt-in-your-mouth goodness make them a crowd favorite. If you loved our Butter Cookies or Almond Biscuits, these shortbreads will be your next go-to indulgence.
What are Shortbread Cookies?
Shortbread cookies are traditional European-style biscuits made from flour, butter, sugar, and often flavored with vanilla, lemon zest, or spices. Their signature texture is crumbly and sandy—perfect for dunking in tea or serving as a dainty dessert. As the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and these tender cookies make a sweet path there.
Why You’ll Love These Shortbread Cookies
Buttery and Crisp
Each cookie is packed with rich, buttery flavor and bakes to a golden, crisp finish.
Simple Ingredients, Elegant Result
With just a handful of pantry staples, you can make bakery-quality cookies at home.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether for a holiday tray, afternoon tea, or thoughtful gift, these cookies are a timeless treat. If you enjoyed our Classic Sugar Cookies, you’ll adore this shortbread variation.
How to Make Shortbread Cookies
Quick Overview
Mix, chill, roll, cut, and bake! These cookies are as simple to make as they are delicious.
Ingredients (For ~24 cookies):
- 150 g (approx. 1 1/4 cups) all-purpose flour (preferably T55)
- 75 g (5 tbsp) unsalted butter, cold
- 75 g (1/3 cup plus 1 tbsp) caster sugar
- 1 small egg
- 1 pinch of salt
- Flavor of choice: vanilla, lemon zest, or cinnamon
Step-by-Step:
- Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and chosen flavor.
- Add cold butter cut into small cubes.
- Rub with your palms until mixture resembles coarse sand.
- Add the Egg:
- Quickly mix in the egg until a dough forms.
- Knead gently and form into a ball.
- Press dough with the palm of your hand a few times to combine.
- Chill:
- Wrap dough lightly in flour-dusted film.
- Chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat and Roll:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Roll dough on a floured surface to 1/2 cm (about 1/4 inch) thick.
- Cut and Bake:
- Use cookie cutters or a glass to cut shapes.
- Place on a buttered baking sheet.
- Bake for ~10 minutes, watching for a golden-blond finish.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving.
What to Serve with Shortbread Cookies
Shortbread pairs beautifully with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. Serve alongside fresh fruit, a dusting of powdered sugar, or dipped in chocolate for an extra indulgence.
Top Tips for Perfecting Shortbread Cookies
- Use Cold Butter: Helps create that perfect sandy texture.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
- Chill the Dough: Prevents spreading and enhances flavor.
- Watch the Bake Time: Remove when lightly golden—not brown.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. These cookies don’t need reheating, but they can be gently warmed if desired. Freeze unbaked dough for up to 3 months—thaw before rolling and baking.
FAQs
Can I make these gluten-free? Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
What’s the best way to flavor them? Try vanilla extract, lemon zest, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Can I decorate these? Absolutely! Add icing, melted chocolate, or colored sugar before baking.
Conclusion
Shortbread Cookies are a timeless, elegant treat that delivers buttery flavor and delicate texture in every bite. With endless flavor options and effortless prep, these cookies are perfect for any occasion—simple, sweet, and always satisfying.
Shortbread Cookies
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Plastic Wrap
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1.25 cups All-purpose flour (T55 preferred)
- 5 tbsp Unsalted butter cold and cubed
- 1/3 cup Caster sugar
- 1 small Egg
- 1 pinch Salt
- 1 tsp Flavoring of choice (vanilla, lemon zest, or 1/2 tsp cinnamon)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and flavoring.
- Add cold butter and rub between your palms until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the egg and gently mix until a dough forms. Do not overwork.
- Form into a ball, wrap in floured plastic wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F). Roll dough to 1/4-inch thick on a floured surface.
- Cut with cookie cutters and place on a buttered baking tray.
- Bake for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Cool on a wire rack before serving.