Shortbread Cookies Round Shape
There’s something magical about the first bite of a perfectly baked shortbread cookie. That tender crumb that melts on your tongue, the rich buttery flavor, and the hint of sweetness that lingers — it’s like a warm hug in edible form. Shortbread cookies, especially in their classic round shape, carry an elegance and simplicity that makes them perfect for everything from a casual afternoon snack to an eye-catching addition on a festive dessert table.
Behind the Recipe
These round shortbread cookies take me back to lazy winter afternoons at my grandmother’s kitchen table. She would press the dough into neat circles, humming softly as the aroma of butter filled the air. The simplicity of the recipe meant it was always ready in a flash, yet it was the patience in baking that made them truly special — golden on the outside, tender within.
Recipe Origin or Trivia
Shortbread traces its roots back to Scotland, where it was once considered an indulgence reserved for celebrations like Christmas, weddings, and Hogmanay. The name “short” refers to the crumbly texture created by the high butter content, a hallmark of this treat. Traditionally cut into rounds, fingers, or wedges, the round shape remains one of the most beloved, symbolizing completeness and classic charm.
Why You’ll Love Shortbread Cookies Round Shape
These cookies are more than just a sweet treat — they’re a little piece of baking bliss.
Versatile: Perfect for tea parties, holiday platters, or just a cozy moment with coffee.
Budget-Friendly: Requires only a handful of pantry staples you likely already have.
Quick and Easy: Minimal prep with straightforward steps means you can have fresh cookies in under an hour.
Customizable: Infuse flavors like vanilla, citrus zest, or even a pinch of spice for variety.
Crowd-Pleasing: Loved by both kids and adults alike, making them a safe choice for gatherings.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Dough can be prepared ahead and stored until baking day.
Great for Leftovers: Maintain freshness for days in an airtight container, still tender and delicious.
Shortbread Cookies Round Shape
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Scottish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Buttery, tender shortbread cookies in a classic round shape, perfect for tea time, holiday trays, or an everyday sweet indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (30 g) cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then mix in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually blend into the butter mixture until a soft dough forms.
- Roll dough between parchment sheets to 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick and cut into rounds with a cookie cutter.
- Arrange cookies on the prepared sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes until edges are pale golden.
- Cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and enjoy.
Notes
- Chill dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling for best shape retention.
- Rotate baking sheet halfway for even browning.
- Use high-quality butter for a richer flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: shortbread cookies, round shortbread, classic shortbread, buttery cookies, tea time cookies
Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results
To make these cookies truly irresistible, here’s how I ensure success every time:
- Use high-quality butter for that melt-in-your-mouth richness.
- Chill the dough before rolling to keep the cookies from spreading.
- Roll evenly to ensure consistent baking.
- Avoid overmixing to preserve the tender crumb.
- Bake just until edges are lightly golden for the perfect texture.
Before we dive into baking, gather your essentials:
Mixing Bowl: For combining the dough ingredients evenly.
Electric Mixer: Helps cream butter and sugar to the right consistency.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient portions.
Rolling Pin: Ensures even thickness for perfect rounds.
Round Cookie Cutter: The star tool for that classic shape.
Baking Sheet: Provides an even surface for baking.
Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and aids even browning.
Ingredients in Shortbread Cookies Round Shape
The magic lies in the harmony of just a few simple ingredients:
- Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (227 g), softened, the heart of the cookie giving it its rich flavor and tender texture.
- Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup (100 g), adds sweetness while helping achieve a delicate crisp edge.
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups (240 g), forms the structure and body of the cookies.
- Cornstarch: 1/4 cup (30 g), lends a finer crumb and softer bite.
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon, enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
Sometimes you need a quick swap:
Unsalted Butter: Salted butter, reduce added salt.
Granulated Sugar: Powdered sugar for a finer texture.
All-Purpose Flour: Gluten-free blend for dietary needs.
Vanilla Extract: Almond extract for a nutty twist.
