Perfect Shortbread Biscuits: Buttery, Crumbly Bliss
These classic shortbread biscuits are rich, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious—with a hint of sweetness and perfect snap that makes them irresistible. Whether for tea time, gifting, or holiday baking, this recipe delivers authentic Scottish shortbread texture with a foolproof method.
✨ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Buttery & crumbly – The hallmark of great shortbread
✅ Just 5 ingredients – Simple pantry staples
✅ Customizable shapes – Cut into rounds, fingers, or wedges
✅ Keeps for weeks – Perfect for make-ahead treats
📝 Ingredients & Why They Matter
| Ingredient | Role | Best Choices |
|---|---|---|
| Butter | Flavor & texture | Unsalted, softened (not melted) |
| Icing sugar | Fine texture | Sifted to prevent lumps |
| Flour | Structure | All-purpose (no need for pastry flour) |
| Oil | Extra tenderness | Neutral oil like canola |
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for depth)
- Zest of 1 lemon (bright contrast)
- ½ tsp cinnamon (warm spice)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cream Butter & Sugar (5 mins)
- Beat 500g softened butter + 2 cups icing sugar until pale and fluffy.
2. Add Wet Ingredients (2 mins)
- Mix in 1 egg + 1 cup oil until smooth.
3. Incorporate Flour (5 mins)
- Gradually add 8 cups flour, 1 cup at a time, until dough comes together.
4. Shape & Chill (30 mins, optional)
- Roll out to ½-inch thickness on a floured surface.
- Cut into shapes (or press into a pan for traditional wedges).
- Chill 30 mins for cleaner cuts (optional but recommended).
5. Bake to Perfection (12-15 mins)
- Bake at 180°C (350°F) until pale golden (not brown!).
- Cool on a wire rack before serving.
🔥 Pro Tips for Perfect Shortbread
✔ Use room-temp butter – For even creaming
✔ Don’t overmix – Stop when just combined
✔ Prick with a fork – Prevents puffing
✔ Low & slow baking – Ensures even cooking
🍽 Serving Suggestions
☕ Classic Tea Time
- Serve with Earl Grey or chai tea
- Dust with extra icing sugar
🎁 Gift-Worthy Packaging
- Stack in a cellophane bag + ribbon
- Pair with homemade jam
🍫 Decadent Upgrade
- Dip half in melted chocolate
- Sandwich with lemon curd or dulce de leche
🔄 Storage & Shelf Life
- Room temp: 2 weeks (airtight container)
- Freezer: 3 months (unbaked or baked)
💡 The Science of Shortbread
- Butter’s fat content creates tenderness
- No leavener = dense, crumbly texture
- Icing sugar dissolves faster than granulated
🎉 Final Verdict: A Timeless Classic!
These buttery, delicate shortbread biscuits are simple yet sophisticated—perfect for any occasion.
Your turn! How do you enjoy shortbread? Share below! 👇
P.S. For extra richness, replace 1/4 cup flour with ground almonds! 🌰