Traditional shortbread is a classic Scottish biscuit that is known for its crisp, buttery texture and simple ingredients. Its history dates back to the 12th century, and it remains a popular treat for holidays and special occasions. Making traditional shortbread is easy and requires only a few basic ingredients: butter, sugar, and flour. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make traditional shortbread from scratch.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch (optional, for extra crispness)
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Tray
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the shortbread from sticking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or a hand whisk to cream together the butter and sugar. Start on low speed and gradually increase to medium speed, mixing until the butter and sugar are well combined and light in texture. This step ensures the shortbread will be tender and melt-in-your-mouth.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift the all-purpose flour, cornstarch (if using), and a pinch of salt. Sifting the dry ingredients helps to incorporate air into the flour, which will result in a lighter texture for the shortbread.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients into the butter and sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until the dough begins to come together. You may need to switch to using your hands to knead the dough, as it becomes thick and a bit crumbly. Continue to knead gently until the dough is smooth and uniform.
5. Roll and Shape the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/4 inch (6mm) thickness using a rolling pin. You can shape the shortbread into rounds, squares, or fingers. If you prefer traditional round shortbread, you can press the dough into a round cake tin and score the top lightly into wedges to make cutting easier once baked.
6. Chill the Dough (Optional)
To help the shortbread hold its shape during baking, you can chill the dough for about 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator before baking. This is particularly helpful if you’re using cookie cutters or making thin shapes. However, if you don’t have time for this step, you can skip it.
7. Bake the Shortbread
Place the dough shapes onto the prepared baking tray, ensuring there is enough space between each piece. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the shortbread is lightly golden around the edges. Keep a close eye on them, as overbaking can cause them to become too hard.
8. Cool the Shortbread
Once the shortbread is golden, remove the tray from the oven and allow it to cool on the tray for a few minutes. This will help the cookies firm up slightly. Afterward, transfer the shortbread to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Optional Decoration
If desired, you can decorate your shortbread by dusting it with a little powdered sugar, or dipping it in melted chocolate for a more indulgent treat. Some people also like to add a light sprinkling of sugar on top before baking to enhance the sweetness.
10. Serve and Enjoy
Once cooled, your traditional shortbread is ready to enjoy! The rich, buttery flavor pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. Store the shortbread in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Tips for Perfect Shortbread:
- Butter quality matters: Since butter is the main ingredient in shortbread, it’s essential to use high-quality, unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overwork the dough: Overworking the dough can make the shortbread tough. Mix just until the dough comes together.
- Thickness matters: Rolling the dough to about 1/4 inch thick will give you the ideal crisp texture. If the dough is too thin, it might become too crispy or burn easily.
- Chill if necessary: Chilling the dough helps prevent the shortbread from spreading too much during baking.
Making traditional shortbread is a straightforward process, and the result is a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a family gathering, or simply to indulge in something sweet, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.