Perfect Shortbread Cookies – Classic, Buttery, and Crumbly

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Today we return to one of the most cherished treasures of traditional baking—shortbread. This humble biscuit has warmed countless homes for centuries, carrying with it stories of celebration, hospitality, and the simple comfort of sharing something lovingly handmade. Rooted deeply in old-world kitchens, shortbread was once reserved for special occasions, crafted with great care from precious ingredients like butter and sugar. Its unmistakable aroma drifting through a home often meant guests were coming, holidays were near, or a moment worth savoring had arrived.

There is something profoundly comforting about the deliberate pace of making classic shortbread. From softening the butter to rubbing flour between the fingertips, each step honors the slower rhythms of the past. No extravagant flavors or hurried techniques—just the quiet joy of creating a cookie that melts delicately on the tongue, carrying with it centuries of tradition. As you prepare this timeless treat, imagine generations before you following the same gestures, shaping dough with gentle hands and setting trays in warm ovens as families eagerly awaited the first crumbly bite.

So gather your simple ingredients, lean into the soothing ritual of classic baking, and let your kitchen fill with the nostalgic scent of buttery goodness. 🍪✨

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Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional but lovely)

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment for even baking.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until pale and smooth, taking your time to incorporate air for a delicate crumb.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract if using, then sprinkle in the flour and salt. Mix gently until the dough starts to come together.
4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead softly just until smooth—avoid overworking to maintain tenderness.
5. Roll the dough to about ½-inch thickness and cut into rounds, fingers, or classic wedges.
6. Place the cookies on the baking sheet and prick each piece lightly with a fork to ensure even baking.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, watching for the edges to turn lightly golden.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on the pan before transferring. Their crumbly texture firms as they rest.

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Nutritional Information

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | 🔥 Baking Time: 25 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 40 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~140 | 🍽️ Servings: 20

#shortbread #classicbaking #buttercookies #traditionalrecipes #homemadegoodness

Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️