DESSERTS

Easiest Shortbread: 7 Steps to Buttery Bliss

by Fatima Garcia

•

22 de January de 2026

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Easiest Shortbread is the ultimate treat for anyone looking for a quick and satisfying dessert. This delightful recipe is a blend of buttery goodness and simplicity, perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a melt-in-your-mouth cookie that will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into how to make shortbread easily and enjoy this classic treat!

Why You’ll Love This Easiest Shortbread

This recipe is not just about taste; it’s about convenience too! Here are a few reasons why this is the best shortbread for beginners:

Simple shortbread recipe with minimal ingredients
Quick and easy shortbread cookies ready in under 30 minutes
No-fail shortbread, perfect for novice bakers
Classic shortbread made simple for every occasion
Easy buttery shortbread that melts in your mouth
Fast and easy shortbread that can be customized

This easy shortbread recipe showcases why shortbread is so easy to make, boasting a blend of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds!

Ingredients for Easiest Shortbread

Gather these items:

1 cup Unsalted Butter (always bring it to room temperature for easy mixing.)
1 tsp Kosher Salt (enhances the butter flavor perfectly.)
⅔ cup Granulated Sugar (adds sweetness that balances the richness.)
1½ tsp Vanilla Extract (a splash of vanilla elevates the taste to a new level.)
2 cups All-purpose Flour (gives the shortbread that signature crumbly texture.)
1 to 2 tbsp Sparkling Sugar or Granulated Sugar (optional) (sprinkle on top while warm for a delightful sparkle and crunch.)

How to Make Easiest Shortbread Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Prepare an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan by lining it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Combine the softened butter in a large mixing bowl until creamy and smooth.
Step 3: Add kosher salt to the butter mixture. Stir in granulated sugar and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Incorporate all-purpose flour into the butter mixture. Mix gently until just combined; the dough should feel crumbly but hold together when pressed.
Step 5: Transfer the dough into your prepared baking pan and press it down evenly.
Step 6: Bake until the edges are light golden brown, about 35 to 40 minutes for a 9-inch pan, or 45 to 50 minutes for an 8-inch pan.
Step 7: Cool the baked shortbread in the pan for 5 minutes. Cut it into squares, bars, or wedges while warm.
Step 8: Sprinkle the top with sugar while still warm. Let cool completely before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Easiest Shortbread

Keep these in mind:

Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
Do not overmix the dough; it should feel crumbly but hold together when pressed.
Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Experiment with flavors by adding lemon zest or chocolate chips.

Best Ways to Serve Easiest Shortbread

Here are a few ideas for serving your delightful shortbread:

Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
Serve it with fresh fruit or whipped cream for a sweet dessert.
Try it with a drizzle of chocolate for an extra indulgence.

How to Store and Reheat Easiest Shortbread

To keep your shortbread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to prepare it ahead of time, you can freeze the dough before baking. This way, you can have homemade shortbread for novices ready whenever you want!

Frequently Asked Questions About Easiest Shortbread

What’s the secret to perfect Easiest Shortbread?

The secret lies in using the right ratio of butter to flour, which ensures a crumbly texture. Also, mixing the ingredients gently helps maintain that melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Can I make Easiest Shortbread ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dough can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days or frozen for longer storage. Just bake it fresh when you’re ready.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Easiest Shortbread?

Make sure your butter is soft enough for mixing and avoid overworking the dough, as it can lead to dense cookies instead of light, flaky ones.

Variations of Easiest Shortbread You Can Try

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider these variations:

Add chopped nuts or dried fruits for extra texture and flavor.
Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a seasonal twist.
Try using different extracts, such as almond or lemon, for unique flavors.

These simple ingredients for shortbread can be transformed into delightful treats that suit any taste!

For more tips on baking, check out our baking guide that covers essential techniques and tricks.

Easiest Shortbread: 7 Steps to Buttery Bliss - Easiest Shortbread - additional detail

For those who want to explore more dessert options, visit our dessert recipes page for inspiration.

Lastly, if you’re interested in the science behind baking, check out this ingredient substitution guide for helpful tips.