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shortbread cookie recipe

Classic Shortbread Cookies

These tender, buttery shortbread cookies are simple to make and melt in your mouth. With just a handful of ingredients, you can craft crisp-edged treats perfect for tea time or holiday gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Servings: 36 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Scottish
Calories: 125

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened (226 g)
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.25 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2.25 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt

Method
 

Directions
  1. Place butter in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Add granulated sugar and powdered sugar. Beat on medium-high speed until pale and silky, about 3 minutes.
  2. Reduce mixer speed to low. Add flour, cornstarch, and salt. Beat until just combined and the dough starts to come together, about 30 seconds.
  3. Turn the dough onto a piece of parchment paper. Press into a disk about 1/2-inch thick, then roll out to 1/4-inch thickness. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet and cut into your desired shapes, spacing cookies 1 inch apart. Prick each cookie with a fork.
  4. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 18 to 22 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Let cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Chilling the rolled dough for 5 minutes before baking helps maintain crisp edges.
Store fully cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 1 month.