Classic Buttery Shortbread Cookies
The Easiest 3-Ingredient Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
These classic buttery shortbread cookies are soft, crumbly, and delicately sweet—everything a perfect shortbread should be. Made with just three simple ingredients, they come together in minutes and deliver incredible flavor and texture. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a sweet snack, these cookies are always a hit.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the flour gradually, mixing until a soft dough forms. It may look crumbly at first—keep mixing until it comes together. Use your hands to gently form it into a ball.
- Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness on a surface lightly dusted with flour or powdered sugar. Cut into rounds or your favorite shapes.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them slightly apart.
- Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale.
- Cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract or lemon zest to the dough.
- You can dust the finished cookies with powdered sugar for a classic touch.
- Avoid overbaking—shortbread should be soft and tender, not browned on top.
These cookies are perfect for gifting, holiday trays, or an everyday treat. Simple, buttery, and irresistibly good—just the way shortbread is meant to be.