HOMEMADE SHORTBREAD

#### Instructions

**Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar**
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process should take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer, or a bit longer if mixing by hand with a whisk or spatula.

**Step 2: Add the Flour and Salt**
Once the butter and sugar are creamed together, sift the flour and salt (if using) into the bowl. Add the flour in batches, mixing slowly to incorporate it into the butter mixture. The dough will start to come together and become thick, but it should still be soft and slightly crumbly. If you’re using vanilla extract, add it now and mix until just combined.

**Step 3: Shape the Dough**
Once the dough is mixed, turn it out onto a clean surface. You can either roll it out into a flat sheet for cutting shapes or press it directly into the baking pan if you prefer square shortbread cookies. If rolling out, aim for about a 1/4-inch thickness for each cookie. To make traditional shortbread shapes, you can use cookie cutters or simply cut the dough into rectangles or triangles using a knife. Alternatively, you can press the dough into a round or square pan and cut the cookies into wedges after baking.

**Step 4: Bake the Shortbread**
Place the shaped dough onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden brown. The center of the shortbread will still be pale, but the texture will be firm when you press gently with your finger.

**Step 5: Cool and Serve**
Once the cookies are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer the shortbread to a wire rack to cool completely. Before serving, you can sprinkle the warm cookies with a little extra granulated sugar for a sweet, crunchy finish.

#### Tips for the Perfect Shortbread

– **Use room temperature butter:** It’s crucial to use butter that’s soft but not melted. Room temperature butter allows the sugar to incorporate smoothly, resulting in a light and tender texture.
– **Don’t overwork the dough:** Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Once the dough comes together, handle it as gently as possible to maintain the delicate crumbly texture.
– **Customize the flavor:** While classic shortbread is delicious on its own, you can easily add your own twist by incorporating ingredients like lemon zest, orange zest, or a sprinkle of cinnamon. For a more decadent treat, try dipping the edges of the cookies in melted chocolate or adding a drizzle after baking.
– **Chill the dough:** If you find the dough too soft to work with, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 30-60 minutes before rolling out. This will make it easier to handle and will also help the cookies retain their shape during baking.
– **Watch the baking time:** Since every oven is different, keep an eye on your cookies towards the end of baking. Shortbread should be golden on the edges but still pale in the center, so avoid overbaking to keep them tender and melt-in-your-mouth.

#### Why Homemade Shortbread is Perfect for Any Occasion

Homemade shortbread cookies are versatile and perfect for all kinds of celebrations. They’re a favorite during the holidays, served alongside hot cocoa or a cup of tea. They make great gifts, too—simply package them in a decorative tin or box for a thoughtful homemade present.

These cookies are also an excellent option for a quick, simple dessert that doesn’t require a lot of preparation. Their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture makes them a favorite with kids and adults alike, and their simplicity allows them to complement a wide range of other desserts or savory dishes.

#### Conclusion

**Homemade Shortbread** is the ultimate in classic, comfort baking. With its buttery flavor, crumbly texture, and subtle sweetness, it’s no wonder these cookies have stood the test of time. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea, as a holiday treat, or simply as a sweet indulgence, they’re sure to bring joy to your kitchen. So grab your butter, flour, and sugar, and treat yourself to a batch of these melt-in-your-mouth shortbread cookies today!