Classic Scottish Shortbread: A 3-Ingredient Buttery Delight
The Best Scottish Shortbread
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Shortbread is a classic Scottish cookie with a buttery crumb that melts in your mouth. This beloved holiday treat has been enjoyed for centuries in Scotland, from cozy kitchens to grand castle banquets.
Why You’ll Love This Shortbread Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Just flour, butter, and sugar – pantry staples you already have.
- Rich, Buttery Flavor: The high fat content ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Versatile: Perfect for gifting, afternoon tea, or a festive dessert platter.
Ingredients for Perfect Shortbread
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions to Bake Scottish Shortbread
- Prepare Your Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C). Butter a 9-inch round baking pan and set aside.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: In a bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Add Flour: Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour. Mix on low speed until the dough comes together – avoid overmixing.
- Shape the Dough: Transfer dough to the prepared pan. Press evenly to fill all corners. Use a fork to prick the surface, creating a classic shortbread pattern.
- Score & Slice: Lightly score dough into 12 wedges with a sharp knife, but leave in place to bake.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until edges turn a delicate golden hue.
- Cool & Serve: Let the shortbread sit in the pan for 10 minutes. Carefully transfer pieces to a wire rack to cool completely.
Chef’s Tips for Irresistible Shortbread
- Working with cold butter yields flakier layers.
- For a zesty twist, add lemon zest to the dough.
- Dust finished wedges with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
Nutrition & Serving Suggestions
Each serving (1 wedge) offers:
- Calories: 267 kcal
- Carbs: 29 g | Fat: 16 g | Protein: 3 g
- Sugar: 9 g | Sodium: 122 mg | Cholesterol: 41 mg
Serve alongside a steaming cup of tea or mulled wine for a taste of Scottish tradition.
Enjoy every crumb of homemade charm in this melt-in-your-mouth shortbread, a time-honored treat made simple.
The Best Scottish Shortbread
This traditional shortbread cookie recipe is made with just three ingredients for a rich, buttery homemade holiday treat that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
Method
- Gather all ingredients and preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the flour and mix on low speed until the dough holds together.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently press into a 9-inch round pan.
- Prick the dough all over with a fork and cut into 12 wedges.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are a delicate golden brown.
- Allow the shortbread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
