Shortbread

Crumbly and buttery, shortbread is a classic treat that never fails to evoke feelings of comfort and warmth. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea in the afternoon or gifted to a friend, homemade shortbread is a delightful indulgence that is surprisingly simple to make. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create your own batch of delicious shortbread that will have everyone coming back for more. Check out this easy recipe that will guide you through every step, ensuring your shortbread turns out perfectly every time.

**Shortbread**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving that delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture that defines good shortbread.

3. Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter-sugar mixture, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; you want the dough to just come together without being overworked.

4. Once the dough is formed, transfer it onto a lightly floured surface. Using your hands or a rolling pin, gently press or roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm). For traditional shortbread, you can also shape the dough into a round or square and prick the surface with a fork for a decorative touch.

5. Cut the dough into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a knife. Classic shortbread is often cut into fingers or rounds, but feel free to get creative with your shapes.

6. Carefully transfer the cut shortbread pieces onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each cookie to allow for slight spreading during baking.

7. Bake the shortbread in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden brown. Keep a close eye on the shortbread as it bakes, as it can go from perfectly crisp to overly browned quite quickly.

8. Once baked, remove the shortbread from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. The shortbread will continue to firm up as it cools, so don’t be tempted to handle it too soon.

9. Your homemade shortbread is now ready to enjoy! Serve it alongside a steaming cup of tea or coffee for a delightful snack, or package it up in a pretty tin for a thoughtful gift that is sure to be appreciated.

Shortbread is a timeless treat that is perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. With this simple recipe, you can bring the magic of freshly baked shortbread into your home and share its delicious charm with those you love. So, don your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to make a batch of delightful shortbread that will fill your kitchen with warmth and your heart with joy.