Meltinyourmouth Scottish Shortbread
Recipe Introduction
Craving Crumbly Goodness?
Ever had one of those days where only a biscuit will do? These shortbread cookies are exactly what you need. Honestly, is there anything more comforting than a perfectly crumbly, buttery treat?
A Taste of Scotland
These melt-in-your mouth cookies are rooted in Scottish tradition. Think of them as a super simple basic cookie recipe , dating back centuries.
It is an Easy shortbread recipe !. We're talking an easy recipe that takes about an hour to make, giving you around 16-20 cookies.
Why You'll Love This Best Shortbread Cookie Recipe
These aren't just any cookies, though. Beyond tasting amazing, they're also relatively low in calories. Perfect for a cheeky little treat with your afternoon cuppa, they offer that delightful homemade taste.
And seriously, what makes them special is the simplicity the few ingredients create something so satisfying. Ready to dive in? Let's get started with the ingredients.
Butter, Sugar, and Flour: The Magic Trio
This shortbread cookie recipe starts with just a handful of ingredients. For the best crumbly shortbread cookies , you'll need: 1 cup (2 sticks) of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt.
I sometimes add coarse sugar for sprinkling on top. Oh my gosh, that makes all the difference!
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Bake!
So, you wanna bake some proper crumbly shortbread cookies ? Ace! This is gonna be so easy. Honestly, this easy shortbread recipe is almost foolproof.
We'll get that "Bake Off" worthy treat, no sweat. I remember the first time I tried, it was a disaster! But trust me, these tips work.
Main Ingredients: The Magic Trio
We're talking simple here. This is almost a three ingredient shortbread cookies kind of deal.
Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks) / 226g . Softened, but still cool . We don’t want melted butter! Quality butter makes all the difference.
Think that rich, proper butter, you know? It makes the best shortbread cookies .
Granulated Sugar: ½ cup / 100g . Nothing fancy here.
All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups / 240g . Plain flour, sorted.
Fine Sea Salt: ¼ teaspoon . Just a pinch.
Seasoning Notes: Simple Flavors
The secret's in the butter! But a tiny bit of salt really enhances the sweetness. For a twist, lemon zest (about 1 tablespoon) can be amazing! Or, chuck in some mini chocolate chips (½ cup) for butter cookies recipe with a choco punch.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
Don't need fancy kit! Just the basics for a basic cookie recipe .
- Mixing Bowl: Any size will do.
- Electric Mixer: Makes life easier but hands work too.
- Rolling Pin: For rolling that dough like a pro.
- Baking Sheet: Line with parchment paper. Prevents sticking.
- Cookie Cutters: Optional, squares are cool.
- Fork: For pricking. Stops puffing.
And there you have it! The stuff we need to get this best shortbread cookie recipe off the ground. The Scottish shortbread recipe is calling our name. Ready to get started?
Mastering the Melt-in-Your Mouth Scottish Shortbread
Alright, let's get cracking on this shortbread cookie recipe ! Think "Bake Off" tent, but without the soggy bottoms. We're aiming for crumbly , buttery perfection that even Mary Berry would approve of.
This is the ultimate basic cookie recipe ! Honestly, is there anything better than a simple three ingredient shortbread cookies that tastes like a million bucks? This easy shortbread recipe is about to become your new go-to.
Prep Steps to Shortbread Bliss
First things first, let's get our stuff together. This is called mise en place if you wanna be fancy. Honestly, it just means having everything ready before you start.
Soften your 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter. Not melted! Just soft enough that a finger will make a dent.
Weigh out your ½ cup granulated sugar and 2 cups all-purpose flour. Don't forget that pinch of ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt ! The better organised you are, the less likely you are to have a meltdown mid-bake, you know?
step-by-step: From Dough to Delightful Crumbly Shortbread Cookies
Here's how to make the best shortbread cookies , like, ever .
- Cream the softened butter and sugar together. Mix them until they are light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture. Mix them on low speed (or by hand) until just combined.
- Gather the dough into a ball. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about ½ inch thickness.
- Cut out shapes with cookie cutters. Or, cut them into squares with a knife if you're feeling lazy, like me.
- Transfer the shaped cookies to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Chill those cookies in the fridge for at least 30 minutes . This is important!
- Preheat your oven to 325° F ( 160° C) .
- Use a fork to prick the cookies all over. Sprinkle with coarse sugar, if you want to get fancy.
- Bake for 20- 25 minutes . You want them lightly golden brown around the edges.
- Cool them on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then move them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips for Shortbread Perfection
Don't overmix the dough! Overmixing equals tough cookies. Chill the dough! This prevents spreading and gives you that perfect crumb.
Bake low and slow! This ensures even baking. Seriously, don't skip the chilling step. It's a game changer for that classic Scottish shortbread recipe texture.
And honestly, who can resist a good butter cookies recipe ?
Let me tell you something, This Best Shortbread Cookie Recipe will blow your mind!.
Recipe Notes: Shortbread Cookie Perfection!
Alright, you've got the recipe for the Best Shortbread Cookie Recipe , Now let's chat about some extra bits. Some tips that will make your shortbread cookies sing .
Honestly, these little things can make a huge difference. These aren't just any Basic Cookies , these are your perfect cookies!
Serving Suggestions: Make 'Em Pretty!
So, you've got your crumbly shortbread cookies . Now, what? A simple plate works just fine. Fancy it up with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Serving suggestion, add fresh berries. Think strawberries or raspberries. Goes well with a dollop of whipped cream! And of course, a nice cuppa tea is essential.
Earl Grey, perhaps? It elevates the humble butter cookies recipe .
Storage Tips: Keep 'Em Fresh
These Best Shortbread Cookies are great for days. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They'll last for about 5 days.
Wanna keep them longer? Freeze them! Wrap them well in plastic wrap. Then, pop them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months.
Reheat? Just let them thaw at room temperature. They'll be ready to enjoy.
Variations: Let's Get Creative!
Fancy a twist on the classic? Try adding lemon zest. About 1 tablespoon. It adds a lovely zing. Or, add mini chocolate chips! Half a cup will do nicely.
Want gluten-free? Use a gluten-free flour blend. Remember to adjust the recipe if needed. It's fun to experiment, so make it your own Easy Shortbread Recipe !
Nutrition Basics: A Treat, Not a Meal!
Two shortbread cookies contain around 150 calories. They also contain 2g of protein, 9g of fat, and 16g of carbohydrates.
Of course, it's an estimate. Enjoy in moderation! These Three Ingredient Shortbread Cookies are perfect for a treat.
So there you have it! The perfect Scottish Shortbread Recipe is totally within your reach! Don't be afraid to experiment and have fun.
Get baking and enjoy the results. You can do it, and you’ll be surprised at how delightful homemade shortbread cookies can be.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my shortbread cookies tough instead of crumbly? Did I do a "soggy bottom?"
A tough shortbread is usually the result of overmixing the dough. When you overmix, you develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a less tender cookie. Next time, mix the flour in gently until just combined. Remember, we're going for that melt-in-your mouth texture, not a jaw workout!
Can I make these shortbread cookies ahead of time, like a proper baker?
Absolutely! The unbaked dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. You can also freeze the shaped cookies for up to a month. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking.
Baked shortbread cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, though they're usually devoured long before that!
What's the secret to preventing my shortbread cookies from spreading in the oven?
Chilling is your best friend here. Chilling the shaped shortbread cookies for at least 30 minutes (or even longer) before baking helps to solidify the butter, which prevents them from spreading too much. Also, make sure your oven temperature is accurate, and don't over grease your baking sheet.
Parchment paper is your friend!
Can I add different flavors or variations to my shortbread cookies?
Definitely! Shortbread is a blank canvas for flavor. Lemon zest, vanilla extract, a pinch of lavender, or even some finely chopped nuts can add a lovely twist. Chocolate chips are always a winner, too! Just be careful not to add too much liquid, as it can affect the texture.
Are shortbread cookies bad for me, nutritionally speaking?
Like most cookies, shortbread cookies are relatively high in fat and sugar, so moderation is key. They're not exactly health food, but a small portion can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. You can consider using whole wheat flour or reducing the sugar slightly to make them a bit healthier.
Everything in moderation, as they say!
I don't have cookie cutters; can I still make these shortbread cookies?
Absolutely! Cookie cutters are optional. After rolling out the dough, simply use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the shortbread into squares, rectangles, or even triangles. Score with a fork and they will still look fantastic. The shape doesn't affect the taste, and that's what really matters, isn't it?
Meltinyourmouth Scottish Shortbread
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 150 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 2g |
