Pin It Tender, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread cookies with a sweet touch of honey and rich buttery flavor perfect for teatime or as a delightful homemade gift.
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients: 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
- Dry Ingredients: 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- Wet Ingredients: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
- Wet Ingredients: 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar
- Wet Ingredients: 1/4 cup (60 ml) honey
- Wet Ingredients: 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt set aside.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, powdered sugar, honey, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Step 4:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Step 5:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it together, then roll it out to about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) thickness.
- Step 6:
- Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters and place cookies 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Step 7:
- Optional: Chill the cut cookies on the baking sheet for 10 minutes to help retain their shape during baking.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 13 15 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
- Step 9:
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pin It Required Tools
Mixing bowls Electric mixer or stand mixer Rolling pin Cookie cutters Baking sheets Parchment paper Wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) dairy (butter) Check vanilla extract and powdered sugar for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories 120 Total Fat 7 g Carbohydrates 14 g Protein 1 g
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Recipe FAQs
- → What makes these shortbread cookies tender?
The combination of softened butter and gentle mixing ensures a tender, melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
- → Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, substituting half the flour with whole wheat adds a nuttier flavor and a bit more texture.
- → How do I achieve crisp edges on the cookies?
Baking the cookies 1–2 minutes longer creates a crispier edge while keeping the center soft.
- → Is chilling the cookies before baking necessary?
Chilling helps the cookies retain their shape during baking, but it’s optional.
- → What variations can enhance the flavor?
Drizzling with extra honey or dipping in melted chocolate adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness.
- → What is the best way to store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their delicate texture and flavor.