Description
These Whipped Shortbread Cookies are a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treat perfect for any occasion. Lightly sweetened and delicately flavored with vanilla, they feature a tender crumb thanks to the combination of all-purpose flour and cornstarch. Simple to prepare and bake at a low temperature, these cookies are ideal for a cozy afternoon snack or elegant dessert plate. Customize with sprinkles or chocolate chips for added fun and flair.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Decorations
- Sprinkles
- Chocolate chips
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes. This process incorporates air to create a tender cookie texture.
- Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract until it is fully combined with the butter and sugar mixture, infusing the dough with flavor.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and cornstarch, mixing gently to form a soft dough. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a delicate crumb.
- Portion the Dough: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each mound about 1 inch apart to allow for slight spreading during baking.
- Decorate: Optionally, flatten each dough portion slightly and decorate with sprinkles or chocolate chips to add color and texture.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes. Watch carefully for the edges to begin turning a light golden color, which indicates they’re done baking.
- Cool Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they set properly and maintain their shape.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and better texture.
- Do not overmix once the flour and cornstarch are added to avoid tough cookies.
- For a decorative touch, gently press sprinkles or chocolate chips onto the dough before baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- These cookies can also be lightly dusted with powdered sugar after cooling for a classic look.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
