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Classic Buttery Shortbread Cookies: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Perfection

A close-up stack of golden brown, rectangular 3 ingredient shortbread cookies on a white plate.
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Make classic, buttery shortbread cookies that achieve a perfect, tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture using just a few simple ingredients. This recipe is ideal for holiday baking or enjoying with afternoon tea.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, for flavor balance)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. You want this well combined for the best texture.
  3. Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix the dough; overmixing develops gluten and makes the cookies tough instead of tender.
  4. Press the dough evenly into an ungreased 8×8 inch baking pan, or roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness for cut-out cookies. If using a pan, prick the surface all over with a fork to prevent puffing.
  5. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The edges should be lightly golden brown, but the center should remain pale. This pale color helps keep the cookies tender.
  6. Remove from the oven and immediately cut the shortbread into desired shapes (squares or fingers) while it is still warm.
  7. Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before carefully transferring them to a wire rack.

Notes

  • For authentic Scottish shortbread texture, use the 3:2:1 ratio (3 parts flour, 2 parts butter, 1 part sugar by weight).
  • If you prefer a lighter, airier texture, try whipping the butter and sugar for 3-5 minutes before adding the flour to incorporate more air.
  • Store these homemade shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://pureplatepath.com/shortbread-cookies-3-ingredient-bake-bliss/