Buttery, crumbly, and oh-so-delicious, shortbread cookies are a classic treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a sweet gift idea, or just want to satisfy your snack cravings, these 18 mouthwatering buttery shortbread cookie recipes have got you covered.
From timeless favorites like Classic Scottish Shortbread Cookies to innovative twists like Lemon Glazed Shortbread Cookies and Earl Grey Tea Infused Shortbread, we’ve gathered the best of the best to inspire your baking adventures. With flavors ranging from sweet and citrusy to nutty and spicy, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
In this article, we’ll dive into each recipe, exploring the ingredients, techniques, and tips you need to create these delectable treats. So grab a cup of tea, put on your apron, and get ready to indulge in the world of buttery shortbread cookie bliss!
Classic Scottish Shortbread Cookies
A traditional Scottish treat that’s crumbly, buttery, and oh-so-delicious. This classic shortbread recipe is a staple of Scottish baking, perfect for dunking in tea or serving with a cuppa.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the flour and salt; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Glazed Shortbread Cookies
These shortbread cookies get a burst of sunshine with a tangy lemon glaze, perfect for brightening up any occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying these sweet and citrusy treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Lemon glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter; mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Lemon Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Mix powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
Earl Grey Tea Infused Shortbread
This shortbread recipe infuses the subtle citrus notes of Earl Grey tea into a crumbly, buttery cookie, perfect for dunking or snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons Earl Grey tea leaves
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add tea leaves and mix until evenly distributed.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place shortbread on prepared baking sheet, leaving space for spreading.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Shortbread Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with these classic shortbread cookies dipped in rich, velvety chocolate. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour and salt; mix until just combined.
3. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Allow cookies to cool completely before dipping the top half of each cookie in melted chocolate.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lavender Honey Shortbread
Add a touch of elegance to your baking with this delicate shortbread infused with the sweet and floral flavors of lavender and honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in lavender buds and honey until well combined. Season with salt.
4. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times until it comes together.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Salted Caramel Shortbread Bites
These bite-sized shortbread cookies are infused with the rich flavor of salted caramel, perfect for a quick indulgence or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup flaky sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sea salt, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch of space between each cookie.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pistachio Rosewater Shortbread
Elevate your shortbread game with the unique combination of ground pistachios and rosewater. This fragrant and flavorful cookie is perfect for a tea party or as a sweet surprise.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup ground pistachios
– 1 tablespoon rosewater
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Stir in ground pistachios and rosewater.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch space between cookies.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Maple Pecan Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are elevated with the rich flavors of maple and pecans, making them perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add maple syrup and mix until combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. Fold in chopped pecans.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Orange Cardamom Shortbread
This sweet and aromatic shortbread recipe combines the warmth of cardamom with the brightness of orange zest, creating a unique and addictive treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Stir in ground cardamom and orange zest.
5. Roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between cookies.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Shortbread
Elevate your shortbread game with the subtle bitterness and grassy notes of matcha green tea. This Japanese-inspired cookie is perfect for tea enthusiasts and those looking to add some exotic flair to their baking repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons matcha powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Stir in matcha powder and salt.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or simply use a cookie cutter.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Vanilla Bean Shortbread with Sprinkles
Elevate your shortbread game with the addition of sweet vanilla beans and colorful sprinkles. These buttery cookies are perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup sprinkles (colored or plain)
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Gradually add flour, salt, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
6. Sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar and add a few sprinkles on top of each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Thins
Sweet and buttery shortbread thins get a delightful twist with the addition of cinnamon sugar. Perfect for a snack or dessert, these crispy treats are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon white granulated sugar (for coating)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add flour, salt, and cinnamon; mix until just combined.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., rectangles or squares).
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Sprinkle tops with white granulated sugar and cinnamon mixture.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
9. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Coconut Lime Shortbread Cookies
Brighten up your day with these sweet and tangy shortbread cookies infused with the tropical flavors of coconut and lime. Perfect for a quick snack or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, coconut, and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Stir in lime juice, vanilla extract, and salt.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Dark Chocolate Chunk Shortbread
Shortbread is a classic Scottish biscuit that’s incredibly easy to make and utterly delicious. This recipe adds a luxurious twist by incorporating dark chocolate chunks, creating a delightful flavor combination.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup dark chocolate chunks (at least 60% cocoa solids)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour and salt; mix until a dough forms.
3. Fold in dark chocolate chunks.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or simply break into squares.
5. Place shortbread on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each piece.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden around edges.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Almond Butter Shortbread Bars
These buttery shortbread bars get an added layer of flavor and texture from the addition of creamy almond butter. Perfect for a sweet treat or as a snack to take on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons almond butter
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
4. Stir in almond butter and salt.
5. Press dough evenly into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rosemary and Olive Oil Shortbread
Rosemary and Olive Oil Shortbread: A fragrant and flavorful twist on the classic shortbread recipe, featuring the earthy notes of rosemary and the richness of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add butter, olive oil, and rosemary to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to work the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead 2-3 times until it comes together in a cohesive mass.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, circles).
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Brown Butter Shortbread Cookies
Elevate your shortbread game with the nutty flavor of brown butter! These classic Scottish cookies are taken to new heights with the deep, caramel-like taste of browned butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and smells nutty, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in sugar until dissolved. Let cool slightly.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder. Add the browned butter mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Let cool on wire rack before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Yield: About 2 dozen cookies
Gingerbread Spiced Shortbread
This shortbread recipe combines the warm spices of gingerbread with the buttery richness of traditional shortbread, creating a delightful treat perfect for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Add ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or simply use a cookie cutter.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each shortbread.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the buttery goodness of shortbread cookies! This article features 18 mouth-watering recipes for every occasion. From classic Scottish shortbread to creative flavor combinations like lemon glazed, earl grey tea infused, and pistachio rosewater, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a savory snack, these buttery shortbread cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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