Scottish Shortbread Cookies are classic, buttery treats with a delicate crumb and subtle sweetness. Known for their melt-in-the-mouth texture, these cookies have been a beloved staple in Scottish baking for centuries. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a cookie that feels both elegant and comforting. These cookies are perfect for tea time, holiday platters, or anytime you want a simple yet indulgent treat.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because of its simplicity and the rich buttery flavor that comes through in every bite. The balance of sweetness and the tender, crumbly texture makes it irresistibly satisfying. It’s a recipe that never fails to impress guests and is perfect for gifting.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This shortbread is a must-try because it embodies the essence of traditional Scottish baking—simple, flavorful, and elegant. It’s versatile, easy to make, and results in a cookie that’s both tender and crisp without being overly sweet.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Calories (Approx.): 120 per cookie
Course: Dessert/Snack
Cuisine: Scottish

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar, plus extra for sprinkling
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Cooking Directions

Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract if using. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms.

Shape the Cookies
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Roll the dough into a rectangle about ½ inch thick. Using a sharp knife or cookie cutter, cut into desired shapes—traditional rectangles or rounds work best. Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Sprinkle a little sugar on top.

Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in flour and salt until dough forms. Add vanilla if desired.

Step 3: Shape and Cut Dough
Roll out dough to ½-inch thickness and cut into rectangles or rounds. Place on a lined baking sheet and sprinkle sugar on top.

Step 4: Bake
Bake at 325°F for 20–25 minutes until edges are slightly golden.

Step 5: Cool and Serve
Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Scottish shortbread with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. They also make a beautiful addition to holiday dessert platters or as a homemade gift in decorative tins.

Recipe Tips

• Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor.
• Do not overwork the dough to keep cookies tender.
• Chill the dough slightly if it becomes too soft to handle.
• Cut cookies uniformly to ensure even baking.

Variations

• Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread: Dip half of each baked cookie in melted chocolate and allow to set.
• Nutty Shortbread: Add finely chopped almonds or pecans to the dough for extra flavor.
• Citrus Shortbread: Add 1 teaspoon of finely grated lemon or orange zest to the dough.

Freezing and Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing Dough: Shortbread dough can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: Cool completely and freeze in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or wooden spoon
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutter or knife
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Wire cooling rack

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cookies without a mixer?
Yes, the butter and sugar can be creamed by hand with a wooden spoon.

Can I use salted butter?
You can, but reduce or omit the additional salt in the recipe.

How do I keep shortbread from crumbling?
Handle the dough gently and avoid overbaking. Properly cooled cookies will hold their shape.

Can I make mini shortbread cookies?
Absolutely. Just reduce baking time slightly, checking frequently to avoid overbaking.

Conclusion

Scottish Shortbread Cookies with Butter and Sugar are a timeless, classic treat that’s easy to make and delightfully rich in flavor. With a crisp yet tender texture and buttery taste, these cookies are perfect for tea time, gifting, or simply enjoying as a comforting snack. Their simplicity and elegance make them a must-try for both novice and experienced bakers alike.