Name: Classic Scottish Shortbread for Your Christmas Cookie Tray
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Scottish
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for sprinkling); 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Buttery, crumbly, and delicately sweet, this classic Classic Scottish Shortbread for Your Christmas Cookie Tray is a must-have tray. With its simple ingredients and timeless appeal, it’s a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with tea, coffee, or even a holiday hot cocoa.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how straightforward and fuss-free this recipe is while delivering maximum flavor. The buttery richness combined with a crumbly texture makes these cookies irresistible. They’re versatile enough to shape into festive designs and are a great make-ahead option for holiday gatherings or gifts. Plus, they stay fresh for weeks, making them a reliable staple for the season.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for sprinkling)

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, I beat the softened butter and sugar together with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and creamy, which takes about 2-3 minutes.

Add the Dry Ingredients
Gradually, I add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until the dough comes together. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

Shape the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, I roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. Cookie cutters make fun festive shapes, but I also enjoy cutting them into classic rectangles or wedges.

Transfer and Chill
Once shaped, I transfer the dough onto the prepared baking sheet and chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. This step ensures the cookies hold their shape during baking.

Bake the Shortbread
I bake the shortbread for 18-22 minutes, watching for the edges to turn lightly golden. Overbaking is a no-go to keep the cookies tender.

Sprinkle with Sugar
Right after taking the shortbread out of the oven, I sprinkle granulated sugar on top for a festive sparkle.

Cool and Serve
After letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, I transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Store
I store the shortbread in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. They’re perfect for making ahead and enjoying throughout the holidays!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Chilling Time: 20 minutes

Baking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 24 cookies

Calories per Serving: 150 kcal

Variations

Add-ins: I sometimes mix in finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, for added texture.

Flavors: A touch of vanilla or almond extract can enhance the flavor profile.

Toppings: Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled cookies for a luxurious finish.

Shapes: Get creative with seasonal cookie cutters to add a festive touch.

Savory Twist: Swap the sugar topping for a pinch of flaky sea salt to complement the buttery richness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating: If desired, I let frozen shortbread thaw at room temperature before serving.

Related Recipes:

Honey Cinnamon Shortbread

FAQs

What makes Scottish shortbread unique?

Scottish shortbread stands out because of its simple ingredients and high butter content, which creates a tender, crumbly texture.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but I’d reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to keep the flavor balanced.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading during baking?

Chilling the dough before baking helps the cookies retain their shape.

Can I make shortbread in advance?

Absolutely! Shortbread stores beautifully for up to 2 weeks, making it perfect for holiday prep.

What’s the best way to achieve the crumbly texture?

Using room-temperature butter and avoiding overmixing are key to the classic crumbly texture.

Conclusion

This classic Scottish shortbread is a simple yet elegant treat that’s perfect for the holidays. With its buttery texture and delicate sweetness, it’s sure to become a cherished part of your Christmas traditions. Whether you enjoy it with a warm drink or gift it to loved ones, this recipe is a timeless delight that brings festive joy.

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