Description
This classic Scottish Shortbread recipe delivers buttery, crumbly cookies with a delicate sweetness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfectly baked to a pale golden finish, these shortbreads are a traditional treat ideally enjoyed with a cup of tea. Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this an accessible and timeless biscuit everyone will love.
Ingredients
Shortbread
- 227 g Salted Butter (room temperature)
- 100 g Granulated Sugar
- 250 g All-purpose Flour
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 320°F / 160°C (140° fan-assisted) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Butter: Ensure the butter is at room temperature. Place it in a bowl and soften slightly using a wooden spoon or spatula, making it pliable but not creamed; alternatively, use a stand mixer carefully to avoid overmixing.
- Combine Sugar and Butter: Add the granulated sugar to the softened butter and mix just until well combined to retain the right texture.
- Add Flour and Form Dough: Sift in the all-purpose flour and mix until the mixture appears crumbly. Then use your hands to gently squeeze and bring the dough together until smooth, being careful not to overwork it.
- Shape Dough in Pan: Transfer the dough into the prepared baking pan. Press it evenly into all corners and flatten the surface as much as possible using your hands.
- Prick Dough: Use a fork to prick holes evenly across the surface in straight lines, pressing about halfway through the dough to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake Shortbread: Bake for 25-35 minutes until the edges just begin to turn golden brown while the top remains pale. Adjust timing as needed and watch for the golden edge cues, then remove from oven.
- Cool: Let the shortbread cool in the pan for approximately 15 minutes to set and firm up before handling.
- Slice: For clean cuts, slice the shortbread while it’s still slightly warm using a long, sharp knife. Cut pieces to your preferred size.
- Serve: Enjoy your traditional Scottish shortbread with a cup of tea, as is customary in Scotland for the perfect pairing.
Notes
- Use high-quality salted butter for the best flavor and texture.
- Do not overmix the dough to keep the shortbread crumbly and tender.
- Pricking holes helps prevent air bubbles and maintains an even texture during baking.
- Baking time may vary depending on your oven; watch for golden edges rather than relying solely on time.
- Slice while warm for clean edges and better presentation.
- Storing shortbread in an airtight container helps maintain its freshness and crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Scottish
