Melt-In-Your-Mouth Perfection: Shortbread Cookies Recipe

 Shortbread cookies are a classic dessert that are perfect for any occasion. With a buttery and crumbly texture, these cookies are simple yet delicious, and can be customized with a variety of flavors and toppings. Here is a recipe for basic shortbread cookies that can be easily adapted to fit your preferences.

Shortbread cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, for about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
5. Slowly add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, beating until just combined.
6. Using your hands, form the dough into a ball.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thickness.
8. Cut the dough into desired shapes using cookie cutters, or slice into rectangles or squares.
9. Place the cookies onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations:

Lemon shortbread cookies: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to the dough.

Chocolate chip shortbread cookies: Mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the dough before rolling it out.

Almond shortbread cookies: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped almonds to the dough.

Jam-filled shortbread cookies: Cut the dough into circles and make an indentation in the center of each cookie. Spoon 1/4 teaspoon of your favorite jam into each indentation and bake as directed.

Toppings:

Powdered sugar: Sprinkle powdered sugar over the cooled cookies for a classic look.

Drizzled chocolate: Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and drizzle over the cooled cookies for a decadent touch.

Candied nuts: Crush candied nuts and sprinkle them over the cooled cookies for added texture and flavor.

Shortbread cookies are a versatile and timeless dessert that can be enjoyed by everyone. This recipe is simple and easy to follow, and can be customized to your liking with different flavors and toppings. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something sweet, shortbread cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.