Are you in search of a simple yet delicious baking project that's perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this 5-Ingredient Shortbread Recipe. Shortbread cookies are loved for their buttery texture and melt-in-your-mouth flavor. With just five key ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can bake these delightful treats at home. Whether it's for afternoon tea, holiday gifts, or just a sweet treat for the family, this recipe is your go-to for quick, homemade shortbread.
Ingredients You'll Need
Before we dive into the shortbread-making process, gather these essentials:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar, plus extra for dusting
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional: Vanilla essence or extract, about 1-2 teaspoons, for enhanced flavor
These simple ingredients are all you need to create a batch of scrumptious shortbread that will impress everyone who tries it.
Step-by-Step Guide
Making shortbread is straightforward and a great way to introduce baking to beginners:
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: With an electric mixer or by hand, cream the butter with sugar until light and fluffy. If you choose to use vanilla essence, add it now.
- Incorporate Flour: Gradually mix in the flour mixture until a soft dough forms. Remember, shortbread dough should be crumbly.
- Shape the Dough: Gather the dough into a ball, flatten into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll and Cut: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Use cookie cutters to shape the shortbread or keep it classic by simply cutting into squares.
- Bake: Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Prick the tops with a fork if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool: Let the shortbread cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
⚠️ Note: Ensure to not overwork the dough or your cookies might spread too much while baking.
Storage Tips
Shortbread is at its best when fresh, but here’s how you can store it:
- Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freezing: Freeze layers of cookies between wax or parchment paper in freezer bags for up to 3 months.
Variations and Add-Ins
Shortbread is incredibly versatile, here are a few ideas to play around with:
| Variation | How to Do It |
|---|---|
| Lemon Zest Shortbread | Add zest of one lemon to the butter-sugar mix for a citrusy kick. |
| Chocolate Chip Shortbread | Fold in about ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough. |
| Almond Shortbread | Replace some of the all-purpose flour with almond flour, about ¼ to ½ cup. |
💡 Note: Remember to adjust the baking time if you add in nuts or chips to prevent over-baking.
These variations allow you to personalize your shortbread, making each batch unique to your taste or the occasion. Shortbread cookies are not just about taste; they're an excellent canvas for experimentation in the kitchen. Whether you opt for the classic recipe or one with a twist, you're guaranteed a delightful baking experience and an even more delightful cookie.
Can I make shortbread without an electric mixer?
+
Absolutely! Creaming the butter and sugar might take a bit more muscle, but it’s entirely possible with a wooden spoon and a little patience.
How long will shortbread keep?
+
If stored correctly in an airtight container at room temperature, shortbread can last for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to three months.
What can I use if I don’t have cookie cutters?
+
You can use a knife to cut the dough into squares or rectangles, or even use a glass to cut out round shapes. Creativity is your friend here!
