Classic Shortbread Cookies So simple but so good! Baking a Moment from bakingamoment.com
Introduction
Shortbread is a classic Scottish biscuit that is simple to make and delicious to eat. Its buttery, crumbly texture makes it a perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee. In this article, we will share with you the best shortbread recipe that we have come across.
Ingredients
To make this shortbread recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
250g unsalted butter, softened
125g caster sugar
375g plain flour
A pinch of salt
Butter
The butter is the star of this recipe, so it's important to use good quality butter. We recommend using unsalted butter as it allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe.
Sugar
Caster sugar is finer than granulated sugar, which makes it easier to cream with the butter. However, if you don't have caster sugar, you can use granulated sugar instead.
Flour
Plain flour is used in this recipe as it has a lower protein content than bread flour. This means that the shortbread will be tender and crumbly.
Salt
A pinch of salt is added to the recipe to enhance the flavour of the shortbread.
Instructions
Step 1: Cream the butter and sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy. This can be done using a wooden spoon or an electric mixer.
Step 2: Add the flour and salt
Sift the plain flour and salt into the bowl with the butter and sugar mixture. Using a wooden spoon, mix the ingredients together until a dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently until it comes together in a smooth ball.
Step 4: Chill the dough
Wrap the dough in cling film and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the dough firm up and makes it easier to handle.
Step 5: Roll out the dough
Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas Mark 4. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface until it is about 1cm thick.
Step 6: Cut into shapes
Using a cookie cutter or a knife, cut the dough into shapes. Traditionally, shortbread is cut into fingers or rounds, but you can use any shape you like.
Step 7: Prick with a fork
Using a fork, prick the surface of the shortbread all over. This helps the shortbread cook evenly and prevents it from puffing up.
Step 8: Bake
Place the shortbread on a baking tray lined with baking paper and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until pale golden in colour.
Step 9: Cool
Remove the shortbread from the oven and allow it to cool on the baking tray for 5 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition
Here is the approximate nutritional information for one serving (based on 12 servings):
Calories: 260
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 41mg
Sodium: 37mg
Potassium: 31mg
Fibre: 1g
Sugar: 8g
Conclusion
This is the best shortbread recipe we have come across, and we hope you enjoy making it as much as we do. Remember to use good quality ingredients, and don't be afraid to experiment with different shapes and flavours. Happy baking!
