In the world of cozy baking and delightful treats, few things compare to the comforting aroma and buttery taste of freshly baked shortbread cookies. These treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering with friends or simply looking to indulge in a sweet moment of solitude. Today, we’re excited to share with you a foolproof recipe for Free Shortbread Cookies. These cookies are light, crisp, and utterly irresistible. Follow along as we guide you through the simple steps to create your own batch of these delicious goodies.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer or simply a sturdy spoon for this step.
3. Sift in the flour and salt into the butter mixture. Using a spatula or your hands, gently mix the ingredients until a smooth dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough rather than tender.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutter to cut out shapes from the dough. Traditional shortbread is often baked in a rectangular or round shape, but feel free to get creative with your designs.
5. Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Prick the tops of the cookies with a fork to create those classic shortbread patterns that not only look beautiful but also help the cookies bake evenly.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to ensure they don’t overbrown.
7. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Enjoy these Free Shortbread Cookies with a hot cup of tea or package them up in a pretty tin to give as a thoughtful homemade gift. Their delicate texture and rich buttery flavor make them an elegant addition to any occasion, from casual gatherings to formal celebrations. We hope this recipe brings a touch of sweetness to your day and inspires you to embrace the simple joys of baking at home. Happy baking!
