A Spoonful of Sugar Shortbread
A delightful and comforting shortbread cookie, perfect for when a little sweetness helps the medicine go down. These buttery, crisp treats are subtly flavored with vanilla and have a golden, tender crumb that melts in your mouth. An easy and elegant addition to any tea time.
Directions
- 1
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes, using an electric mixer.
- 3
Gradually add the sifted flour to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined and a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
- 4
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead once or twice to bring it together, then flatten into a disc.
- 5
Roll the dough out to about a 1/2-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters, or cut into rectangles or rounds with a knife.
- 6
Carefully transfer the shaped dough to the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between cookies.
- 7
Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set. The cookies should still be pale.
- 8
Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with a little extra granulated sugar, if desired.
- 9
Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- 10
Dust with confectioners' sugar before serving, if desired. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.