There’s nothing quite like the rich, buttery taste of Ultimate 3-Ingredient Shortbread—a true classic that’s as easy as it is delicious! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, this foolproof recipe brings authentic Scottish shortbread to your kitchen with minimal effort. In just a few simple steps, you’ll create melt-in-your-mouth cookies that pair perfectly with coffee, tea, or even a cozy night in.
What makes this recipe so special? First, it uses just three pantry staples—butter, sugar, and flour—to achieve a perfect balance of crispness and tenderness. Plus, since shortbread is all about the quality of ingredients, this is the perfect time to splurge on rich, European-style butter for an unbeatable flavor.
And the best part? You don’t need any fancy equipment or advanced baking skills. Just mix, roll, and bake! With a little patience and a low, slow bake, you’ll have golden, buttery shortbread that stays fresh for days. Ready to bake the ultimate shortbread? Let’s get started!
Recipe Yield: 12-16 cookies
INGREDIENTS
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, softened
(If using unsalted butter, add ¼ tsp salt for flavor balance.)
⅔ cup granulated sugar
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat & Prepare: Preheat oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the salted butter and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the Flour: Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms. It may appear crumbly at first—press it together gently until soft but not sticky.
4. Shape & Cut: Roll the dough out to ½-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Cut into rectangles or rounds, then prick the tops with a fork for a classic look.
5. Bake Low & Slow: Arrange the cookies on the baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, until lightly golden at the edges.
6. Cool & Enjoy: Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve with tea or store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Use High-Quality Butter: Scottish shortbread is all about the butter! European-style salted butter gives the richest, best flavor.
- Chill the Dough if Needed: If your dough is too soft, chill for 15-20 minutes before rolling to help hold its shape.
- For Extra Texture: Sprinkle a little coarse sugar on top before baking for a delicate crunch.
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