Description
A simple and classic 3 Ingredient Shortbread Cookies recipe that uses just butter, sugar, and flour to create perfectly buttery and tender cookies. These cookies are easy to make, crisp on the edges, and melt in your mouth, making them an ideal treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Shortbread Dough
- 1 cup salted butter, softened
- ½ cup icing sugar (powdered sugar) or caster sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer or using a hand beater, cream together the softened butter and sugar for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This ensures a smooth and tender cookie base.
- Add Flour: Gradually add the flour and mix on low speed just until the dough begins to come together, being careful not to overmix to keep the shortbread tender.
- Form and Chill Dough: On a lightly floured surface, gently form the dough into a ball. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 60 minutes to allow the dough to firm up, which helps maintain shape during baking.
- Roll and Cut: After chilling, roll out the dough to about ¼ to ½ inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters (around 1 to 1½ inches) to cut out shapes. Place the cut cookies on a prepared baking sheet and refrigerate again while you preheat the oven to keep the dough cold.
- Bake Cookies: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. This gentle bake yields a crisp edge with a tender center.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the cookie sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling fully ensures the perfect texture and enhances the flavor.
Notes
- Using softened butter is important for creaming properly with sugar.
- Chilling the dough prevents spreading during baking.
- Cooling completely is key for the best taste and texture of shortbread.
- You can substitute unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt if preferred.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: Shortbread Cookies, 3 Ingredient Cookies, Butter Cookies, Easy Cookies, Classic Shortbread, Homemade Cookies
