Save Tender, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread cookies with a sweet touch of honey and rich buttery flavor perfect for teatime or as a delightful homemade gift.
I remember baking these cookies for my family holiday gatherings when I was a child the aroma always brought everyone into the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour: Dry ingredient
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt: Dry ingredient
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened: Wet ingredient
- 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar: Wet ingredient
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) honey: Wet ingredient
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Wet ingredient
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt set aside.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter powdered sugar honey and vanilla extract until light and fluffy (about 2 3 minutes).
- Step 4:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture mixing on low speed until just combined Do not overmix.
- Step 5:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface Gently knead it together then roll it out to about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) thickness.
- Step 6:
- Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters and place cookies 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Step 7:
- Optional Chill the cut cookies on the baking sheet for 10 minutes to help retain their shape during baking.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 13 15 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
- Step 9:
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Save Baking these cookies always brings my family together sharing stories and laughter around the kitchen table.
Notes
For a crisper cookie bake 1 2 minutes longer Drizzle with extra honey or dip in melted chocolate for variation Substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor
Required Tools
Mixing bowls Electric mixer or stand mixer Rolling pin Cookie cutters Baking sheets Parchment paper Wire rack
Nutritional Information
Calories 120 Total Fat 7 g Carbohydrates 14 g Protein 1 g per cookie
Save
These honey butter shortbread cookies are a timeless treat sure to delight any crowd.
Common Questions
- → What makes these shortbread cookies tender?
The blend of softened butter and honey creates a moist, tender crumb by adding richness and sweetness, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- → Can I use whole wheat flour in this preparation?
Yes, substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour adds a nuttier flavor and a slightly denser texture.
- → How can I ensure the cookies keep their shape while baking?
Chilling the cut dough pieces on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before baking helps the cookies retain their shape and prevents excessive spreading.
- → What temperature and time are ideal for baking?
Baking at 325°F (160°C) for 13 to 15 minutes produces golden edges and a soft, tender center suitable for shortbread.
- → Are there any suggested toppings or flavor twists?
Drizzling extra honey over cooled cookies or dipping them in melted chocolate adds a delightful finishing touch and extra sweetness.
- → What tools are recommended for preparing these cookies?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, an electric or stand mixer, rolling pin, cookie cutters, baking sheets, parchment paper, and a wire rack for cooling.