Pin It Tender melt-in-your-mouth shortbread cookies with a sweet touch of honey and rich buttery flavor perfect for teatime or as a delightful homemade gift.
When I baked these cookies for the first time, their aroma filled the entire house creating an irresistible warmth and joy.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour: Dry ingredient
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt: Dry ingredient
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened: Wet ingredient
- 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar: Wet ingredient
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) honey: Wet ingredient
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Wet ingredient
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In a medium bowl whisk together the flour and salt set aside.
- Mix wet ingredients:
- In a large bowl beat the softened butter powdered sugar honey and vanilla extract until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Combine:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture mixing on low speed until just combined Do not overmix.
- Prepare dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface Gently knead it together then roll it out to about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) thickness.
- Cut shapes:
- Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters and place cookies 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Optional chilling:
- Chill the cut cookies on the baking sheet for 10 minutes to help retain their shape during baking.
- Bake:
- Bake for 13-15 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
- Cool:
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pin It These cookies bring my family together every holiday season reminding us to savor simple joys.
Storage
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Variations
Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top after baking or dip half the cookie in melted dark chocolate for a decadent twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a perfect teatime treat that delights all ages.
Pin It Enjoy these honey butter shortbread cookies fresh for the best melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Your Questions Answered
- → What makes shortbread tender and soft?
The combination of softened butter and the correct mixing technique creates a tender, crumbly texture that melts in the mouth.
- → How does honey affect the flavor?
Honey adds a subtle natural sweetness and floral notes, enhancing the richness of the butter for a balanced taste.
- → Can the dough be chilled before baking?
Yes, chilling the cut dough for about 10 minutes helps cookies retain their shape during baking and improves texture.
- → What is the ideal baking time for crisp edges?
Baking for 13 to 15 minutes until the edges begin to turn golden creates a slight crispness while keeping the center tender.
- → Are there ingredient substitutions for variation?
Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour adds nuttiness, and drizzling with honey or melted chocolate adds flavor variety.