Save Tender, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread cookies with a sweet touch of honey and rich buttery flavor perfect for teatime or as a delightful homemade gift.
This recipe has been a family favorite for years especially during holidays when we gift homemade treats.
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients: 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- Wet Ingredients: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter softened, 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar, 1/4 cup (60 ml) honey, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt set aside.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter powdered sugar honey and vanilla extract until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Step 4:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Step 5:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it together then roll it out to about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) thickness.
- Step 6:
- Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters and place cookies 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Step 7:
- Optional Chill the cut cookies on the baking sheet for 10 minutes to help retain their shape during baking.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 13 15 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
- Step 9:
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Save Baking these cookies always brings the family together as we share stories and enjoy fresh treats.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls electric mixer or stand mixer rolling pin cookie cutters baking sheets parchment paper wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) dairy (butter) Check vanilla extract and powdered sugar for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
120 calories 7 g total fat 14 g carbohydrates 1 g protein per cookie
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Enjoy these sweet buttery cookies fresh or store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How can I achieve a tender texture in these shortbreads?
Use softened unsalted butter and avoid overmixing the dough to keep it tender and crumbly.
- → Can I substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour?
Yes, replacing half the flour with whole wheat adds a nuttier flavor and slightly denser texture.
- → What’s the purpose of chilling the cut dough before baking?
Chilling helps cookies retain their shape during baking, preventing spreading.
- → How do the honey and vanilla affect the flavor?
Honey adds subtle sweetness and moisture, while vanilla provides a warm aromatic depth.
- → Can I add toppings or coatings after baking?
Yes, drizzling with extra honey or dipping in melted chocolate works wonderfully for variation.