- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This moderate temperature ensures that the shortbread bakes evenly without browning too quickly.
- Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease a 9-inch square baking pan or a similar-sized round pan. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cutting later.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done using a hand mixer or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment.
- Add Vanilla Extract: For an extra layer of flavor, add the vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the vanilla flavor throughout the shortbread.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as it can lead to a tougher shortbread.
- Press the Dough into the Pan: Transfer the shortbread dough to the prepared baking pan. Using your fingers or the back of a spoon, press the dough evenly into the pan. Ensure it reaches the edges for a uniform thickness.
- Score the Dough: Use a sharp knife to score the shortbread into desired shapes. Traditionally, shortbread is cut into squares or wedges, but you can get creative with shapes if you prefer.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on the shortbread, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
- Optional Sugar Sprinkle: While the shortbread is still warm from the oven, sprinkle a little extra granulated sugar over the top. This step adds a sweet crunch to the finished product.
- Cool and Cut: Allow the shortbread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, using the previously scored lines as a guide, cut the shortbread into individual pieces. Allow it to cool completely in the pan before removing.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, transfer your homemade shortbread to a serving plate. This delicious treat is perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.
Conclusion:
Homemade shortbread is a classic treat that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. This recipe provides a foolproof guide to creating buttery, crumbly goodness that will have your friends and family asking for seconds. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a delightful snack, this homemade shortbread recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
