Description
Experience the ultimate melt-in-your-mouth shortbread that balances a delicate crumb with rich, buttery flavor. This traditional recipe focuses on temperature and chilling techniques to ensure a perfect, bakery-quality cookie every time.
Ingredients
- 142g (10 tbsp) Unsalted Butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup Confectioners’ Sugar
- 1/2 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract
- 180g (1 1/2 cups) All-Purpose Flour
- 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
Instructions
- Place room temperature butter and vanilla extract in a stand mixer with a paddle attachment and beat until smooth and creamy.
- Add the confectioners’ sugar and salt, then mix on low speed until fully combined, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour on the lowest setting, mixing only until the dough just begins to come together.
- Turn the dough onto plastic wrap, shape into a log or rectangle, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350F (177C) and slice the chilled dough into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
- Place slices on a lined baking sheet, prick the tops with a fork, and bake for 10 minutes until very pale gold.
- Cool completely on a wire rack to allow the cookies to firm up and set.
Notes
For the most delicate texture, use high-fat European-style butter and ensure it is fully at room temperature before you begin creaming. If your kitchen is warm and the dough feels soft while slicing, return it to the freezer for five minutes to ensure clean edges and prevent spreading.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Scottish