Easy Scottish Shortbread with Just 3 Ingredients!
Shortbread cookies are a timeless classic with a rich, buttery flavor and crumbly texture that melts in your mouth. These simple yet indulgent cookies date back to medieval Scotland, where they were traditionally made with just butter, sugar, and flour. The beauty of shortbread lies in its simplicity, allowing the natural flavors of butter to shine through. You can try this delicious Jam Shortbread recipe.
Whether you enjoy them plain, dipped in chocolate, or infused with vanilla or citrus zest, homemade shortbread cookies are perfect for holidays, tea parties, or an everyday sweet treat. Their tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture makes them a favorite among bakers and cookie lovers alike.
In this recipe, we’ll walk you through the best traditional shortbread recipe, with step-by-step instructions, expert tips for achieving perfectly crisp and buttery cookies, and variations to customize them to your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Shortbread Cookie Recipe
✔️ Only 3 Main Ingredients – Made with butter, sugar, and flour, this is the most authentic Scottish shortbread recipe.
✔️ Perfectly Buttery & Crumbly – The high butter content creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture with a delicate crispness.
✔️ Easy to Customize – Add flavors like vanilla, almond extract, or lemon zest, or dip them in chocolate for an extra treat.
✔️ Great for Gifting – These homemade shortbread cookies store well and make beautiful holiday gifts.
✔️ No Eggs, No Baking Powder – This is an eggless cookie recipe, making it simple and fuss-free.
Ingredients for Classic Scottish Shortbread
To make authentic shortbread cookies, you only need a handful of ingredients. The key is to use high-quality butter for the best flavor and texture.
Basic Shortbread Dough
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened (Use European-style butter for a richer flavor)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or powdered sugar for a softer texture)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (Enhances the buttery flavor—omit if using salted butter)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (Sifted for a lighter texture)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Optional, but adds a lovely aroma)
Optional Add-Ins for Flavor Variations
- 1 teaspoon lemon or orange zest (For a citrusy touch)
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (Adds a warm, nutty flavor)
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (For a sweet twist)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped nuts (pecans, almonds, or walnuts) (For a crunchy texture)
Instructions for Buttery Shortbread Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). This step helps incorporate air into the dough, giving the cookies a delicate texture.
Step 3: Add Salt and Vanilla
Mix in the salt and vanilla extract (if using). If you’re adding any zest or extracts, now is the time to incorporate them into the dough.
Step 4: Add Flour Gradually
Slowly add the flour, mixing on low speed until just combined. The dough should be soft, crumbly, and slightly dry but should hold together when pressed.
Step 5: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it forms a smooth ball. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can make the cookies tough.
Step 6: Roll and Cut the Dough
Using a rolling pin, roll the dough out to 1/4-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut into rectangles, circles, or classic shortbread fingers. If you prefer a traditional Scottish look, prick the tops with a fork to create the signature pattern.
Step 7: Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended)
For the best texture, place the cut-out shortbread in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes before baking. Chilling prevents the cookies from spreading too much and enhances their crumbly texture.
Step 8: Bake Until Golden
Transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the edges just start to turn golden brown. Be careful not to overbake—shortbread should remain light in color with a delicate crunch.
Step 9: Cool Completely
Let the shortbread cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. The cookies will firm up as they cool.
Pro Tips for the Best Shortbread Cookies
✔️ Use High-Quality Butter – Since butter is the star ingredient, European-style butter (like Kerrygold or Plugrá) will give your shortbread the best flavor.
✔️ Chill the Dough – This helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents excessive spreading.
✔️ Don’t Overwork the Dough – Handle the dough gently to maintain the signature crumbly texture.
✔️ Prick with a Fork – This traditional step helps steam escape and gives shortbread its classic look.
✔️ Bake at a Low Temperature – 325°F (165°C) ensures even baking and a delicate crispness.
Shortbread Cookie Variations
Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread
After the cookies have cooled, dip them halfway into melted dark, milk, or white chocolate. Place them on parchment paper until the chocolate hardens.
Lemon or Orange Zest Shortbread
Add 1 teaspoon of finely grated citrus zest for a fresh, zesty twist.
Almond or Pecan Shortbread
Stir in 1/4 cup of finely chopped nuts for a nutty flavor and added crunch.
Spiced Holiday Shortbread
Add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg for a festive Christmas cookie flavor.
Storage & Freezing Instructions
How to Store Shortbread Cookies
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- For longer freshness, store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
How to Freeze Shortbread Dough
- Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- When ready to bake, thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight, then roll and bake as usual.
How to Freeze Baked Shortbread Cookies
- Once completely cooled, place cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Final Thoughts: The Best Buttery Shortbread Recipe
This classic homemade shortbread recipe is easy to make, incredibly buttery, crisp, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Whether you enjoy them plain or customized with chocolate, nuts, or spices, these buttery cookies are perfect for holidays, tea parties, or everyday snacking.
Give this recipe a try, and let us know how you like it!
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