Looking for a delightful treat that is both delicious and perfect for holiday baking or any special occasion that calls for some homemade charm? Shortbread for cut out cookies is the answer! This versatile recipe not only yields buttery and tender cookies but also allows you to get creative with your favorite cookie cutters to make beautifully shaped delights. Whether you’re crafting holiday-themed cookies or simply want a fun project for a cozy weekend at home, this recipe will surely become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.
Shortbread For Cut Out Cookies
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Assorted cookie cutters
– Sprinkles, colored sugar, or royal icing (optional for decoration)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving that signature shortbread texture, so take your time to ensure the butter and sugar are well combined.
2. Add the salt and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mixing well and scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; you want the dough to come together without being overworked. If the dough seems too sticky, you can gently knead in a little extra flour.
4. Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each portion into a disk. Wrap the dough disks in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough will help it firm up and make rolling and cutting out the cookies much easier.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one of the chilled dough disks to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the dough, then carefully transfer the cutouts to the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. If desired, you can embellish your cookies at this stage with sprinkles, colored sugar, or leave them plain for a more classic look.
8. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden brown. Keep a close eye on them as shortbread can quickly go from perfectly baked to overly crispy.
9. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Repeat the rolling, cutting, and baking process with the remaining dough until all your shortbread cookies are baked and ready to enjoy!
Shortbread for cut out cookies is a versatile and delicious treat that brings joy to any occasion. Whether you’re decorating them with colorful icing for a festive touch or keeping them simple and elegant with a dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. So, gather your favorite cookie cutters and get ready to create some edible works of art that will delight both the young and young at heart!
