Save Buttery, tender shortbread cookies with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, made with just three ingredients and no chilling required—a perfect quick treat for any occasion.
I first served these cookies when I needed a fast dessert, and they quickly became a family favorite.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (227 g), softened
- Powdered sugar: 1/2 cup (60 g)
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (240 g)
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar:
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Mix dough:
- Gradually add the flour, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. Do not over-mix.
- Shape cookies:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten dough balls:
- Flatten each dough ball gently with a fork or the bottom of a glass for a classic look.
- Bake:
- Bake for 16 18 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden.
- Cool:
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Save These cookies always remind me of cozy afternoons spent baking with my family.
Notes
These cookies pair well with tea or coffee and can be customized with various add-ins like nuts or dried fruit.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl Electric mixer or sturdy wooden spoon Baking sheets Parchment paper Fork or glass for flattening Cooling rack
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (butter) and gluten (wheat flour). Check butter and flour labels if concerned about cross-contamination.
Save Enjoy these classic shortbread cookies fresh or store them in an airtight container for up to a week.
Recipe FAQs
- → What ingredients create the tender texture?
Softened unsalted butter combined with powdered sugar and all-purpose flour produces a tender, melt-in-the-mouth texture.
- → Is chilling the dough necessary before baking?
No chilling is required; the dough can be shaped and baked immediately for a quicker preparation time.
- → How can I add a citrus flavor twist?
Incorporate finely grated lemon or orange zest into the dough to introduce a bright citrus note.
- → What is the best way to shape the dough portions?
Roll tablespoon-sized portions into balls, place on parchment-lined sheets spaced apart, and gently flatten with a fork or glass bottom.
- → How long should these treats bake?
Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 16 to 18 minutes until edges are just beginning to turn golden.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the use of butter, sugar, and flour makes this suitable for vegetarian diets.