Print

Melt In Your Mouth Shortbread

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This melt-in-your-mouth shortbread is buttery, tender, and delicately sweet. With only a few simple ingredients, these cookies are perfect for holiday baking or as a treat with tea or coffee.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar (sifted)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour (sifted)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Additions:

  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for extra tenderness)
  • Dipped edges in melted chocolate
  • Sprinkled sugar or sprinkles for decoration


Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Cream the butter and sugar:
    • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together using a hand or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
  3. Add vanilla:
    • Mix in the vanilla extract until combined.
  4. Incorporate the dry ingredients:
    • Gradually add the sifted flour and salt to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until a soft dough forms. If using cornstarch, add it with the flour.
  5. Shape the cookies:
    • Scoop or roll the dough into 1-inch balls, or roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness and cut with cookie cutters. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
  6. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Be careful not to overbake.
  7. Cool and serve:
    • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Decorate (optional):
    • Dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate, drizzle with icing, or dust with additional powdered sugar for a festive touch.


Notes

  • For a classic Scottish twist, press the dough into a round pan, score into wedges, and bake as a single round.
  • Dough can be chilled for 30 minutes if it’s too soft to work with.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.