Description
These Mouth Shortbread Cookies are classic Scottish butter cookies that melt in your mouth with a delicate, crumbly texture. Made with simple ingredients like unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla, they are perfect for any occasion and easy to prepare. The slightly golden edges provide a subtle crunch while the inside remains soft and buttery.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the texture is light and fluffy, which helps incorporate air for a tender cookie.
- Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse the dough with a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt into the wet mixture, stirring gently until a soft, cohesive dough forms. Be careful not to overmix to maintain the delicate crumbly texture.
- Shape Dough: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls or shape them as desired. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading during baking.
- Flatten Cookies: Slightly flatten each cookie with a fork or your fingers to create a uniform shape and texture.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 14 to 16 minutes, or until the edges are just barely golden, indicating they are perfectly baked.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing them to set without breaking.
Notes
- These cookies have a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture that is characteristic of traditional shortbread.
- For added flavor and visual appeal, dip the baked cookies in melted chocolate or sprinkle additional powdered sugar on top.
- Chilling the dough for 20 minutes before baking can help create cleaner edges and prevent excessive spreading.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Scottish
