Indulge in the simplicity and elegance of these Effortless 4-Ingredient Shortbread Cookies, which offer a perfect balance of buttery richness and delicate crispness. With just four basic ingredients, these cookies are wonderfully easy to make and result in a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s sure to delight. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is foolproof, ensuring soft, slightly crisp cookies every time.
Why You’ll Love This:
These shortbread cookies are the epitome of uncomplicated baking, requiring minimal ingredients and effort but delivering maximum flavor and texture. The addition of cornstarch makes them exceptionally tender, while the right amount of powdered sugar imparts a subtle sweetness that complements the rich butter perfectly. They are ideal for those moments when you crave something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Perfect Occasion:
These shortbread cookies are versatile enough for any occasion. Serve them as an elegant treat at afternoon tea, package them beautifully for a thoughtful homemade gift, or simply enjoy them as a delightful snack with your morning coffee or evening tea. They are also perfect for holiday baking, as they can be easily customized with different shapes and decorations to suit any festive celebration.
Decoration Tips:
For a touch of extra sweetness and visual appeal, sprinkle the cookies with caster sugar right after they come out of the oven. If you’re feeling creative, dip half of each cooled cookie in melted chocolate and allow it to set for a chocolate-dipped version. For festive occasions, consider using cookie cutters in shapes that match the theme of the event, such as stars for Christmas or hearts for Valentine’s Day.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup + 2 tbsp (250g) butter, softened
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 1/2 cups plain flour
Method:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 150°C (300°F).
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sift the cornstarch and flour into the bowl. Mix gently until just combined to form a smooth dough.
- Shape the Cookies: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to approximately 1cm thickness. Cut into rectangles (1cm x 6cm) or your desired shape. Prick each cookie thrice with a fork to prevent puffing.
- Chill: Place the shaped cookies on a lined baking sheet. Chill in the fridge for 10 minutes to firm up.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 130°C (250°F) and continue baking for another 10 minutes or until they are lightly golden.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy these divine shortbread cookies, a classic treat that combines simplicity with deliciousness, providing a perfect bite for any occasion!
