There’s nothing quite like a warm, buttery shortbread cookie fresh from the oven. But why settle for just one flavor when you can have them all? In this article, we’ll be diving into 17 irresistible shortbread cookie recipes with a buttery twist. From classic Scottish shortbread to more adventurous flavors like rosemary and sea salt or matcha green tea, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and indulgent or savory and satisfying, these shortbread cookies are sure to hit the spot. And the best part? They’re all easy to make and require just a few simple ingredients – including a generous helping of butter, of course!
So grab your mixing bowl and preheat your oven, because we’re about to take the world of shortbread cookies to new heights.
Classic Scottish Shortbread Cookies
Classic Scottish Shortbread Cookies
A quintessential Scottish treat, these buttery shortbread cookies are a staple of any tea party or gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a batch that will delight both young and old.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the flour and salt; mix until just combined.
4. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times until it comes together.
5. Roll out to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Yield: About 24 cookies
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Glazed Shortbread Cookies
Brighten up your day with these buttery shortbread cookies infused with the sweetness of lemon and a hint of citrus. These classic treats are perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter; use a pastry blender or fingers to work into crumbs.
3. Press mixture into a disk shape. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
4. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch of space between each.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg for glaze. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. While cookies are still warm, drizzle with lemon glaze (mix equal parts lemon juice and confectioners’ sugar). Dust with additional confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread Cookies
This recipe yields a batch of buttery shortbread cookies, perfectly balanced with a rich and velvety chocolate coating.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and granulated sugar; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Dip cooled cookies into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
7. Place dipped cookies on a parchment-lined plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Earl Grey Tea Shortbread Cookies
Experience the delightful fusion of Earl Grey tea’s citrusy charm and classic shortbread cookies with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon Earl Grey tea leaves (loose or in tea bags)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add flour, salt, Earl Grey tea leaves, and baking powder. Mix until just combined.
4. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times to form a cohesive mass.
5. Roll out to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, fingers).
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Rosemary and Sea Salt Shortbread
Rosemary and Sea Salt Shortbread Recipe
This recipe combines the classic flavors of shortbread with the brightness of rosemary and the crunch of sea salt, making it perfect for a quick snack or as a topping for soups or salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add chopped rosemary and flaky sea salt to the dry ingredients; stir until combined.
4. Add cold butter to the dry mixture; use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface; knead gently until it comes together in a cohesive mass.
6. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, rectangles, or use a cookie cutter).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Lavender Honey Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies infused with the subtle flavor of lavender and a hint of honey are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons dried lavender buds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Stir in lavender buds and honey until well combined.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Shortbread
Savor the subtle bitterness of matcha green tea in this delicate shortbread, perfect for a refreshing treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon matcha green tea powder (ceremonial grade)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Stir in matcha green tea powder and vanilla extract.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, circles).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each shortbread.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pecan Shortbread Cookies with Caramel Drizzle
Experience the perfect combination of buttery shortbread and sweet caramel with these indulgent cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Caramel drizzle (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add butter, granulated sugar, and pecans. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
5. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Caramel Drizzle:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Combine ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until caramel turns golden brown. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Ginger Spiced Shortbread
Warm up with the inviting aroma of ginger and spices in this classic shortbread recipe, elevated by a hint of ginger and a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add the ground ginger and mix until combined.
4. Using a pastry blender or your fingers, work in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Stir in the granulated sugar.
6. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
7. Roll out to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm). Cut into desired shapes.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each cookie.
9. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Orange Cardamom Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are infused with the warmth of cardamom and the brightness of orange zest, making them a unique and delicious addition to any cookie plate.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons orange zest
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the orange zest and cardamom; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour and salt; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Almond Flour Shortbread Cookies
These buttery cookies are a delightful twist on the classic shortbread recipe, using almond flour instead of traditional wheat flour for a nutty flavor and tender texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Optional: chopped almonds or sea salt for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add the softened butter and granulated sugar to the bowl. Mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Coconut Lime Shortbread Bites
Coconut Lime Shortbread Bites: A Delicious Treat with a Tropical Twist
These bite-sized shortbread cookies combine the classic buttery flavor of traditional shortbread with the bright, citrusy taste of lime and the creamy richness of coconut. Perfect for a quick snack or as a sweet addition to your favorite dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Stir in shredded coconut, lime juice, and salt.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Maple Walnut Shortbread Squares
Elevate your snack game with these buttery shortbread squares infused with the rich flavors of maple and walnut.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add maple syrup and mix until combined.
3. Whisk in flour and salt until just combined. Fold in chopped walnuts.
4. Press dough evenly into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cinnamon Sugar Shortbread Fans
Sweet and buttery shortbread fans infused with the warmth of cinnamon sugar – a perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in granulated sugar and cinnamon until well combined.
5. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll into a 1/4-inch thick sheet.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each fan.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Raspberry Jam Thumbprint Shortbread
This classic shortbread recipe gets a sweet twist with the addition of raspberry jam thumbprints, perfect for a delightful tea party or as a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup raspberry jam
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add flour and salt; mix until just combined.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Use a thumb or cookie cutter to create small indentations in the dough.
6. Spoon a small amount of raspberry jam into each indentation.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Shortbread
This classic shortbread recipe gets a luxurious twist with the addition of dark chocolate and flaky sea salt, creating a sweet and savory treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Fold melted chocolate into the dough until well combined.
6. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet and sprinkle with sea salt.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Brown Butter Shortbread Cookies
These Brown Butter Shortbread Cookies are an elevated take on the classic shortbread recipe, featuring a deep brown butter flavor that adds depth and complexity to the traditional buttery taste. Perfect for snacking or serving as a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes and place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of buttery goodness with these 17 irresistible shortbread cookie recipes! From classic Scottish shortbread to unique flavor combinations like lemon glazed, chocolate-dipped, and rosemary and sea salt, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover how a simple twist on the traditional recipe can elevate your baking game. With flavors ranging from matcha green tea to ginger spiced and dark chocolate and sea salt, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Dive in and get baking with these mouthwatering shortbread cookie recipes!