Are you a lover of sweet and crumbly treats? Look no further! We’ve rounded up 20 irresistible buttery shortbread cookie recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic Scottish shortbread to innovative flavor combinations like lemon glazed, chocolate dipped, and earl grey tea infused, we’ve got it all covered.
Whether you’re a fan of bright citrus flavors or rich spices, there’s something for everyone in this collection of scrumptious shortbread cookie recipes. And the best part? Each one is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and some basic baking skills. So go ahead, indulge in these buttery bites and treat yourself to a sweet escape.
Classic Scottish Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are a staple of Scottish baking, with a crumbly texture and subtle sweetness. Perfect for dunking in tea or enjoying on their own, they’re a timeless treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 1/4 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. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface; knead gently until smooth.
5. Roll out to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., fingers, rounds).
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between cookies.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Glazed Shortbread Cookies
Brighten up your day with these buttery shortbread cookies infused with a tangy lemon glaze. Perfect for a sweet treat or as a thoughtful gift, these cookies are sure to bring a smile.
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
– Lemon zest for garnish (optional)
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 and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
4. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
6. Allow cookies to cool completely before glazing with a mixture of lemon juice and powdered sugar ( Ratio: 1 part lemon juice to 2 parts powdered sugar). Drizzle glaze over cooled cookies.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Shortbread Cookies
Elevate your snack game with these classic shortbread cookies, infused with the decadence of melted chocolate. Perfect for any occasion or as a sweet treat to brighten up your day.
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
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour, salt, and confectioners’ sugar; mix until combined.
3. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
4. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
5. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth. Dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Earl Grey Tea Infused Shortbread
Elevate your shortbread game with this unique Earl Grey Tea Infused Shortbread recipe, where the bergamot flavor of the tea perfectly complements the buttery goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup Earl Grey tea leaves
– 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
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.
3. Add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until combined.
4. Steep Earl Grey tea leaves in 1 tablespoon boiling water for 5 minutes. Strain the tea into the dough mixture and mix until well combined.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lavender Honey Shortbread Cookies
Savor the sweet and floral flavors of these tender shortbread cookies infused with the subtle essence of lavender and the warmth of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons dried lavender buds
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– 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 use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until a crumbly mixture forms.
4. Stir in granulated sugar, lavender buds, and honey until well combined.
5. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times until it comes together.
6. Roll out to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Almond Flour Shortbread Cookies
Short on time but still want to satisfy your sweet tooth? These buttery almond flour shortbread cookies are the perfect solution. Made with just a few simple ingredients, these crumbly treats require no chilling and can be ready in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– Optional: Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Maple Pecan Shortbread Bites
These bite-sized shortbread treats combine the warmth of maple syrup with the crunch of pecans, making them a perfect sweet snack for any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 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. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Stir in maple syrup and chopped pecans. Season with salt to taste.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
5. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each biscuit.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
7. 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
Rosemary Sea Salt Shortbread
This recipe combines the simplicity of shortbread with the savory flavors of rosemary and sea salt, creating a unique and delicious treat perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
– 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, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the flour, baking powder, and sea salt. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in the chopped rosemary.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Orange Zest Shortbread Cookies
Brighten up your baking with these sweet and citrusy shortbread cookies infused with the warmth of orange zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Stir in orange juice and zest.
5. Roll out the dough to 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. Allow cookies to cool on wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (optional).
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Shortbread
This Japanese-inspired shortbread combines the subtle bitterness of matcha green tea with the richness of butter and sugar, creating a unique and delicious treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons matcha powder
– 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 matcha powder and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
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
Brown Butter Shortbread Squares
These Brown Butter Shortbread Squares are a game-changer for any cookie lover. With the deep, nutty flavor of brown butter and the crumbly texture of traditional shortbread, these squares are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and smells nutty, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in sugar until dissolved. Let cool slightly.
4. Add flour and salt to the browned butter mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
5. Press the dough into the prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cranberry White Chocolate Shortbread
This sweet and tangy shortbread combines the flavors of cranberries and white chocolate for a delightful holiday treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
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; use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
3. Stir in white chocolate chips until well combined.
4. Fold in cranberries and granulated sugar.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch space between cookies.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pistachio Rosewater Shortbread
This shortbread recipe combines the nutty flavor of pistachios with the delicate fragrance of rosewater, creating a unique and irresistible treat perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 teaspoon 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 the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Stir in chopped pistachios, rosewater, and salt.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on wire rack before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Ginger Spiced Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies infused with the warmth of ginger are perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a thoughtful gift. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch that will leave your friends and family feeling merry and bright.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 3/4 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 sugar until light and fluffy. Add ginger and mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Vanilla Bean Shortbread Rounds
These buttery shortbread rounds infused with the warmth of vanilla bean are a simple yet elegant addition to any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
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. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead a few times until it comes together.
5. Roll the dough into a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm). Cut into rounds or shapes as desired.
6. Place the shortbread on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each round.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Coconut Lime Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are infused with the bright flavors of coconut and lime, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious batch that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 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. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Stir in granulated sugar, shredded coconut, and lime juice until well combined.
4. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
5. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden around edges.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Dark Chocolate Espresso Shortbread
Elevate your snack game with this decadent shortbread recipe, featuring the perfect balance of dark chocolate and espresso flavors. Perfect for coffee lovers and those who crave a sophisticated treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
– Optional: flaky sea salt for garnish
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 crumbly dough forms.
3. Stir in dark chocolate chips and espresso powder.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, rectangles, or use a cookie cutter).
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each shortbread.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cooling before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Raspberry Jam Thumbprint Shortbread
These buttery shortbread cookies are filled with a sweet and tangy raspberry jam center, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create these delicious treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup raspberry jam
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
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 and 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 the rim of a glass.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
6. Use your thumb or a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
7. Fill the indentation with raspberry jam.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. 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
Cardamom Shortbread with Almonds
Experience the unique flavor combination of warm cardamom and crunchy almonds in these buttery shortbread cookies. Perfect for a snack or dessert, they’re sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cardamom
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
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.
3. Add cardamom and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Fold in almonds.
6. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between cookies.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Salted Caramel Shortbread Bars
Salted Caramel Shortbread Bars Recipe
These rich and buttery shortbread bars are elevated by a gooey salted caramel filling, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
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 salt. Add softened butter; mix until crumbly.
3. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Allow to cool completely before spreading caramel sauce evenly over the shortbread.
6. Sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar and flaky sea salt. Cut into bars and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the buttery goodness of shortbread cookies! This article features 20 mouthwatering recipes that will tantalize your taste buds. From classic Scottish shortbread to creative variations like lemon glazed, chocolate dipped, and earl grey tea infused, there’s a recipe for every shortbread lover. Try making lavender honey or almond flour shortbreads for a unique twist. With ingredients ranging from maple syrup to rosewater, these shortbread cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Perfect for snacking or gifting, start baking today and discover the joy of shortbread!
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