Classic Buttery Christmas Shortbread Cookies
These classic buttery Christmas shortbread cookies are easy to make, featuring a rich buttery flavor with a tender yet crisp texture, perfect for holiday gatherings and gifting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups (250 grams) all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional: powdered sugar or colored sanding sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
- Take the unsalted butter out of the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to soften. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup (227 g) softened unsalted butter with ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Mix in 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract until just combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour and ¼ teaspoon salt.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing on low speed or folding gently with a spatula until dough is soft but firm enough to handle. Avoid overmixing.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about ½ inch (1.3 cm) thickness or pat into a rectangular shape about ½ inch thick. Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut into desired shapes or bars.
- If desired, sprinkle with powdered sugar or colored sanding sugar for a festive touch.
- Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until edges just start to turn a delicate golden color.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Use unsalted butter softened but not melted for best texture. Avoid overmixing flour to prevent tough cookies. Chill dough if sticky for easier shaping. Watch cookies closely to avoid overbaking; edges should be pale golden. Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (about 1.5
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 4
- Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 9
- Protein: 1
Keywords: Christmas cookies, shortbread, buttery cookies, holiday treats, easy cookies, festive baking