Name: Shortbread Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 2 cups softened butter; 1 cup white sugar; 2 teaspoons McCormick Vanilla Extract; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2/3 cup mini chocolate chips; 2/3 cup white chocolate chips; 2/3 cup dried cranberries, chopped; 1 teaspoon McCormick Pure Peppermint Extract; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon McCormick Pure Orange Extract; 1 teaspoon coarse sugar; 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate (melted for drizzling)

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There’s just something magical about Shortbread Cookies. Growing up, my grandmother had a special way of making them that filled our home with an irresistible buttery aroma. Every holiday season, she would gather us in her cozy kitchen, and we would help roll out the dough, cut it into shapes, and sprinkle it with sugar. Those moments were not just about baking; they were about bonding, laughter, and the joy of creating something delicious together. Each bite of her Shortbread Cookies brings back a flood of memories—of love, warmth, and a bit of sweetness. It’s no wonder that this recipe has been passed down through generations, becoming a cherished tradition in our family.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
32 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
12 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
1 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon

Why We Love This Shortbread Cookies

1. Simplicity is Key

One of the reasons I adore Shortbread Cookies is their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, they manage to pack a delightful punch of flavor. The buttery goodness paired with just the right amount of sweetness is a testament to the beauty of less being more in baking.

2. Versatility

While the classic version is unmatched, there are so many variations you can play with. Add chocolate chips, dried fruits, or a hint of peppermint, and you’ll have a new flavor sensation. This versatility means you can enjoy Shortbread Cookies for any occasion, from festive gatherings to cozy evenings at home.

3. Perfect Texture

The texture of these cookies is simply divine. They are crumbly yet melt-in-your-mouth tender, thanks to the perfect balance of butter and flour. When baked just right, they have a slight crisp on the outside while remaining soft inside, making each bite a delightful experience.

4. Easy to Make

You don’t need to be a baking expert to whip up these treats. The straightforward steps make this recipe approachable for bakers of all levels. You’ll find that even if you’re a beginner, you can achieve delicious results that will impress family and friends alike.

5. Great for Gifting

Homemade cookies are always a treat to receive, and Shortbread Cookies are no exception. Pack them in a decorative tin or wrap them in beautiful paper, and you’ve got a thoughtful gift for any occasion. They’re perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just because!

6. Lasting Memories

Lastly, baking Shortbread Cookies can create memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re making them with your kids or sharing them with friends, the experience of baking together fosters connection. Each cookie you create becomes a part of your story, a sweet reminder of time spent together.

What’s In This Shortbread Cookies

When it comes to Shortbread Cookies, the ingredients are simple yet vital. Each component plays a key role in achieving that perfect taste and texture. The rich butter is the star of the show, providing a luxurious mouthfeel that you simply can’t get enough of. Sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness, while flour brings everything together, giving the cookies their signature crumbly texture.

2 cups softened butter: The foundation of your shortbread, ensuring a rich and creamy flavor.
1 cup white sugar: Provides the necessary sweetness to balance the richness of the butter.
2 teaspoons McCormick Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the cookie flavor.
4 cups all-purpose flour: The main structure of the cookies, creating that desired crumbly texture.
2/3 cup mini chocolate chips: Optional, but they add a delightful burst of chocolate flavor.
2/3 cup white chocolate chips: These bring a creamy sweetness to the cookies if you choose to include them.
2/3 cup dried cranberries, chopped: Adds a fruity, tart contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
1 teaspoon McCormick Pure Peppermint Extract: For a refreshing twist in your shortbread.
Red food coloring: Optional, used to achieve a fun color for holiday occasions.
Optional: 1 to 2 tablespoons flour: If the dough is sticky, this can help adjust the consistency.
1 cup powdered sugar: Used for making a glaze to drizzle on top for added sweetness.
1 teaspoon McCormick Pure Orange Extract: Another flavor enhancer to consider, especially for festive versions.
Coarse sugar for sprinkles on top: Adds a lovely texture and sparkle to the cookies.
Milk: Semi-sweet or dark chocolate melted for drizzling, enhancing the cookie experience.

How to Prepare Shortbread Cookies

Making Shortbread Cookies is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma. Follow these steps, and you’ll be rewarded with delicious cookies that are perfect for sharing. Let’s dive into the detailed steps for creating these scrumptious treats.

In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, beat butter until creamy. This is the first step to achieving that light and fluffy texture. It usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes on medium high speed.
Add in sugar and continue mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the dough, which contributes to the lightness of the cookies.
Stir in vanilla extract until well combined. The aroma of vanilla adds a comforting scent that makes these cookies irresistible.
Now, gradually mix in flour until well combined, but be careful not to overmix. You want the dough to come together without becoming tough.
Remove about two-thirds of the dough mixture from the bowl and place it evenly divided into two bowls. Leave one-third of the dough in the mixing bowl to make your base.
For the first variation, add mini chocolate chips to one bowl of dough and stir well until incorporated. This chocolatey version is always a hit!
Form the chocolate dough into a log shape, approximately 1 and 1/2 inches thick. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge to chill for about two hours.
For the next variation, add white chocolate chips and chopped dried cranberries to the second bowl of dough, and stir until combined. This combination offers a sweet and tart contrast.
Shape this dough into another log, approximately the same thickness as the first, wrap it in plastic wrap, and also place it in the fridge to chill.
For a festive twist, to the remaining dough, add peppermint extract and red food coloring. Mix well until the dough has an even color. If it seems sticky, add in 1 to 2 extra tablespoons of flour.
Chill all doughs for at least two hours; however, if you’re short on time, you can place them in the freezer for one hour instead.
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Remove one log of dough from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about five minutes.
Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 equal-sized pieces. If the dough flakes slightly, use your hands to push it together gently; the warmth of your hands will help.
Place the cookies onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. For the chocolate chip version, feel free to sprinkle the tops with coarse sugar for added texture.
Bake for approximately 12 minutes, or until the bottoms start to lightly brown. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake.
Once they’re done, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
Repeat this process with the remaining logs of dough until you’ve baked all of your cookies.
If desired, melt a small amount of your favorite chocolate to drizzle over finished cookies or to dip them into. Allow the chocolate to set completely prior to serving.
To make a glaze, combine powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and water in a bowl, stirring until well combined. The glaze should be thick yet pourable; adjust the thickness with more sugar if necessary.
For an orange glaze, add one teaspoon of orange extract to the glaze and drizzle it over the cranberry white chocolate cookies. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
For a peppermint glaze, repeat the process with peppermint extract and drizzle it over the peppermint shortbread cookies.
Allow all glazes to dry completely before serving your delicious creations!

Things Worth Knowing

Chilling the Dough: Chilling the dough is essential for achieving the right texture. It helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Mixing Technique: Be cautious not to overmix the dough once you add the flour. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Uniform Sizes: Ensuring your cookie pieces are uniformly sized will help them bake evenly. Use a ruler or guide to make this easier.
Cooling Time: Allow cookies to cool completely on a rack before frosting or glazing. This prevents the glaze from melting and becoming runny.

Tips and Tricks about Shortbread Cookies

Baking Shortbread Cookies is an art, and these tips will help you achieve perfection every time. Use these tricks to elevate your cookie-making game!

Storage: Once cooled, store in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can last for up to a week, but I bet they won’t last that long!
Freezing: You can freeze the dough logs before baking. Slice and bake straight from the freezer for a quick treat.
Pairing: These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. They make for a delightful afternoon snack.
Variations: Experiment with flavors! Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can give your Shortbread Cookies a festive twist.
Glazing Options: Feel free to drizzle different types of glaze on your cookies. Lemon or chocolate glazes can add a delightful touch.

Serving Options for Shortbread Cookies

When it comes to serving Shortbread Cookies, the possibilities are endless. Here are a few ideas to impress your guests:

Tea Parties: Serve these cookies at afternoon tea for a touch of elegance. They pair perfectly with both hot and iced tea.
Holiday Gatherings: Bring Shortbread Cookies to holiday parties as a festive treat. Their buttery flavor complements seasonal sweets.
Gift Giving: Package cookies in decorative tins or boxes to give as gifts. They make thoughtful presents for friends and family.
Snack Time: Enjoy these cookies as a delightful snack at any time of the day. Pair them with a glass of milk for a classic combination.
Brunch Events: Serve with brunch as a sweet ending to savory dishes. A great addition to any brunch table!
Picnic Treats: Perfect for outdoor gatherings, pack them in your picnic basket for a touch of sweetness amidst your savory spreads.

FAQ

Absolutely! Shortbread Cookies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week. If you want to prepare them even further in advance, you can freeze the dough logs. Just slice and bake them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy fresh cookies!

The beauty of Shortbread Cookies lies in their versatility! You can add various flavors such as citrus zest, spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix in nuts for added texture. Experiment with different extracts like almond or hazelnut for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. You want the edges to be just starting to turn golden brown. The centers will still look a bit pale, but they will firm up as they cool. Overbaking can result in a dry texture, so it’s better to check a few minutes before the recommended time!

To store your delicious Shortbread Cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about a week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider freezing them in a sealed bag or container. Just remember to let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

Conclusion

The magic of Shortbread Cookies lies in their simplicity and the rich memories they create. With just a few ingredients, you can bake up a batch that transports you to a cozy kitchen full of joy. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s not just about making cookies; it’s about making memories. So grab your apron and start baking these delightful treats today!