When it comes to cozy evenings at home or hosting a delightful get-together with friends, having a simple yet heavenly dessert recipe in your arsenal can make all the difference. This Short Crust Cookie is the perfect combination of crispy, buttery goodness with a hint of sweetness that will leave everyone reaching for seconds. Whether paired with a warm cup of tea or enjoyed on its own, this cookie is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
**Short Crust Cookie**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– ½ cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 egg yolk
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet:** Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and powdered sugar. Mix well until fully combined.
3. **Incorporate Butter:** Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, incorporate the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. **Add Vanilla and Egg Yolk:** Once the butter is mixed in, add the vanilla extract and egg yolk to the bowl. Continue to mix until the dough comes together. It should be smooth and slightly sticky.
5. **Shape the Cookies:** Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls about the size of a walnut. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
6. **Flatten and Decorate:** Using a fork or the bottom of a glass, gently flatten each cookie to about ¼ inch thick. You can also create a criss-cross pattern on the cookies by pressing the fork across the top.
7. **Bake the Cookies:** Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. **Cool and Enjoy:** 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.
9. **Serve and Store:** These Short Crust Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy them with a glass of milk, a scoop of ice cream, or simply by themselves. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
10. **Variations:** Feel free to customize these cookies by adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm flavor, or incorporate some chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture.
Indulge in the simplicity and deliciousness of these Short Crust Cookies. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just craving a homemade treat, this recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy the delicate balance of flavors and the satisfying crunch of each bite.
