Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Unsalted butter: This is the main ingredient that gives the cookies their rich, creamy flavor and tender texture.

Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness and helps create a slight crunch on the outside.

All-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cookies and keeps them from spreading too much while baking.

Salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.

One of the most important steps in this Shortbread Cookies Recipe is how you roll out the dough to the right thickness before cutting your cookies. Getting this part just right helps your cookies bake evenly and have that perfect crumbly texture everyone loves.

Here’s a simple way to roll out your dough like a pro:

1. Lightly sprinkle some flour on your clean surface. This stops the dough from sticking.
2. Place your ball of dough on the floured surface and gently press it down a bit with your hands.
3. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough out evenly, turning it a little as you go so it stays round and smooth.
4. Try to keep the thickness about ¼ inch. You can check by eye or use a ruler if you want to be exact.
5. If the dough starts sticking to the rolling pin, just sprinkle a bit more flour on top.

Rolling the dough evenly means your cookies will bake at the same speed, so some won’t be burnt while others are still soft. It also helps them hold their shape better when you cut them with cookie cutters.

When I first tried this, I didn’t use enough flour on the surface, and my dough stuck everywhere! It made rolling out a mess and the cookies didn’t look neat. Now, I always keep a little extra flour nearby to dust the surface and rolling pin. It’s a small step that makes the whole process smoother and more fun. Plus, it’s easier to clean up afterward!

• unsalted butter - Substitute with salted butter: Reduce the salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.

• unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Provides a similar texture and moisture content.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with powdered sugar: Creates a finer texture in the cookies.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with brown sugar: Adds a slight molasses flavor and moisture.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: Makes the cookies suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Provides a slightly different mineral content and flavor.

• salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Offers a coarser texture and a purer taste.

• To keep your shortbread cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for up to a week.
• For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cookies. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They will last for about two weeks in the fridge.
• If you want to enjoy shortbread cookies over a longer period, freezing is an excellent option. First, ensure the cookies are completely cooled.
• Arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about an hour. This step prevents them from sticking together.
• Once the cookies are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to label the container with the date.
• Frozen shortbread cookies can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.
• For an extra touch of freshness, you can warm the thawed cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This will revive their delightful buttery aroma and crisp texture.
• If you prefer to freeze the dough instead of the baked cookies, shape the dough into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then in aluminum foil. This method allows you to slice and bake the cookies whenever you crave them.
• Frozen dough can be stored for up to three months. When ready to bake, let the dough thaw in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and baking as usual.

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the shortbread cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Warm them for about 5-10 minutes, or until they are just heated through. This method helps maintain their crisp texture.

• Use a toaster oven set to 300°F (150°C). Arrange the cookies on the toaster oven tray and heat for 5-7 minutes. This is a quick and efficient way to reheat a small batch.

• If you're in a hurry, you can use a microwave. Place the shortbread cookies on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on low power for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious, as microwaving can make them soft.

• For an extra touch, you can reheat the cookies on a stovetop. Place a non-stick skillet over low heat and warm the cookies for about 1-2 minutes on each side. This method can add a slight crispiness to the edges.

• If you have an air fryer, set it to 300°F (150°C). Place the shortbread cookies in a single layer in the air fryer basket and heat for 3-5 minutes. This method ensures even reheating and maintains their delightful crunch.

• Oven: Used to bake the cookies at the specified temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Baking sheet: A flat sheet used to place the cookies on for baking.

• Parchment paper: Lining for the baking sheet to prevent the cookies from sticking.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine and mix the ingredients.

• Electric mixer: Useful for creaming the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the ingredients accurately, such as butter, sugar, and flour.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure small quantities like salt.

• Rolling pin: Used to roll out the dough to the desired thickness.

• Floured surface: A surface dusted with flour to prevent the dough from sticking while rolling it out.

• Cookie cutter: Used to cut the dough into shapes.

• Wire rack: Used to cool the cookies after baking.

Soften the butter quickly: Cut the butter into small pieces and let it sit at room temperature for faster softening.

Use a food processor: Combine butter, sugar, flour, and salt in a food processor to speed up the dough-making process.

Chill the dough: Place the dough in the fridge for 10 minutes before rolling it out to make it easier to handle.

Pre-cut parchment paper: Prepare your baking sheet with pre-cut parchment paper to save time during cleanup.

Batch baking: Use multiple baking sheets to bake more cookies at once.