If you’ve never had a whipped shortbread cookies, let me introduce you to your new favorite treat. These cookies are the perfect balance of buttery richness, delicate sweetness, and a soft texture that quite literally melts in your mouth. Whether it’s the holidays, a special occasion, or just an excuse to bake something comforting, these cookies fit the bill.
What Makes Whipped Shortbread Cookies So Special?
Shortbread cookies are already a classic, but whipping them? That takes them to a whole new level. The magic here lies in the process of beating the butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy, introducing a luxurious, airy quality to these tender little bites.
Plus, these cookies are incredibly versatile. They’re perfect plain, but you can also jazz them up with sprinkles (as we’re doing here), a drizzle of chocolate, or even a dollop of jam. They’re simple to make, use pantry staples, and are guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Effortless Elegance: These cookies come together with just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, but they look and taste like something from a high-end bakery.
2. Perfect Texture: The whipped butter creates a soft, tender crumb that feels like a cloud in your mouth.
3. Customizable: Add sprinkles for a festive touch, or experiment with flavor extracts like almond or lemon for a unique twist.
4. Kid-Friendly: From rolling the dough into balls to adding sprinkles, little ones will love helping with this recipe.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14–16 minutes
- Total Time: 25–30 minutes
- Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
Nutritional Information (per cookie):
Calories: 90
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 1g
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break down the stars of this recipe:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): The heart of any shortbread, butter provides richness and that signature crumbly texture.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Creates a smooth sweetness without grittiness.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the dough, providing structure.
- 1/4 cup cornstarch: Adds that delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A simple way to add depth and warmth.
- Sprinkles: Optional but highly recommended for a festive touch!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Your Workspace
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup and even baking.
2. Whip the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar together using an electric mixer.
- Whip the mixture on medium-high speed for at least 5 minutes. This step is crucial—you’re looking for a fluffy, pale, and aerated consistency. Don’t rush it!
Pro Tip: Use room-temperature butter for the best results. Cold butter won’t whip properly, and melted butter will make the dough too greasy.
3. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
- Reduce the mixer speed to low and add 1 1/2 cups of flour, 1/4 cup of cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt gradually.
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until just combined. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky.
Pro Tip: Avoid overmixing once the dry ingredients are added, as this can make the cookies dense.
4. Shape the Cookies
- Dust your hands lightly with cornstarch to prevent sticking. Scoop out the dough using a teaspoon or small cookie scoop (about 2 teaspoons to 1 tablespoon per cookie).
- Roll the dough into balls and place them evenly spaced on the prepared cookie sheets.
5. Add a Decorative Touch
- Dip the tines of a fork into cornstarch and gently press down on the tops of the cookies to create a simple pattern.
- Sprinkle a few colorful sprinkles on top of each cookie.
Pro Tip: For extra flair, try colored sugar, edible glitter, or seasonal sprinkles to suit the occasion.
6. Bake to Perfection
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 14–16 minutes, or until the tops look set. The edges should remain pale to maintain their delicate texture.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tip: Avoid overbaking. Shortbread cookies should remain light in color for the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve These Cookies
These whipped shortbread cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:
- With Tea or Coffee: Perfect for an afternoon treat.
- As Gifts: Package them in decorative tins or cellophane bags for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- On a Dessert Platter: Pair with chocolate truffles, biscotti, or fruit tarts for a stunning presentation.
Extra Tips for Success
- Measure Carefully: Accurate measurements, especially for flour and cornstarch, are key to achieving the right texture.
- Chill if Needed: If your dough feels too soft to handle, pop it in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before shaping.
- Room Temperature Butter: This ensures the butter and sugar whip to their full potential.
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe is so simple, the quality of butter and vanilla extract makes a big difference.
- Don’t Skip the Whipping: That fluffy butter-sugar mixture is the secret to these cookies’ dreamy texture.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for a fancier presentation.
- Zesty Lemon: Add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a bright, citrusy twist.
- Nutty Delight: Press a whole almond or pecan into the center of each cookie before baking.
- Holiday Spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, seasonal flavor.
Freezing and Storage
- To Store: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- To Freeze: Arrange unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add a minute or two to the baking time.
FAQ
1. Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty cookies.
2. Can I use granulated sugar instead of powdered sugar?
Powdered sugar is best for its fine texture and ability to dissolve completely. Granulated sugar may result in a grittier texture.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to whip the butter and sugar thoroughly, even with the larger quantity.
4. Can I skip the cornstarch?
Cornstarch is key to the cookies’ tender texture. If you don’t have it, try substituting with cake flour for a similar effect.
5. How do I prevent the dough from sticking?
Dusting your hands and utensils with cornstarch helps manage any stickiness while shaping and decorating the cookies.
Conclusion
These whipped shortbread cookies are a delightful treat you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Their simplicity, versatility, and irresistible texture make them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, hosting a tea party, or just indulging in some self-care, these cookies are the perfect companion.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to see how it turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me. Happy baking! 🎉
Print
Whipped Shortbread Cookies: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Perfection
- Total Time: 25–30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
1 cup unsalted butter, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup cornstarch, 1/4 tsp salt, 1 tsp vanilla extract, sprinkles
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup cornstarch, 1/4 tsp salt, 1 tsp vanilla extract, sprinkles
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 300°F and line baking sheets.
2. Whip butter and powdered sugar for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, cornstarch, salt, and vanilla; mix until combined.
4. Shape dough into small balls, flatten with fork, and top with sprinkles.
5. Bake for 14–16 minutes until set. Cool and enjoy!
Notes
Use room-temperature butter for the best texture.
– Dust hands with cornstarch to handle dough easily.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14–16 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American