Whipped Shortbread Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter¹
softened
- ¾ cup powdered sugar)
(plus additional for imprinting cookies
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ teaspoon table salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
- Nonpareils
jimmies, or colored sanding sugar for decorating, optional
Directions
- 1
Preheat oven to 325F (165C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
- 2
Combine butter and powdered sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer (or in a large mixing bowl and use an electric hand mixer) and beat on medium-high speed (use high speed if using a hand mixer) until lightened in color, fluffy, and creamy. This will take at least 5 minutes with a stand mixer and possibly a bit longer if using a hand mixer. If needed, pause occasionally to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure all of the butter and sugar are being well creamed.
- 3
Add vanilla extract and salt and stir until combined.
- 4
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch.
- 5
Turn mixer speed to medium-low and gradually add flour, stirring until just combined.
- 6
Scoop dough into tablespoon-sized scoops and briefly roll between your palms to make smooth balls. Place on prepared baking sheet, spacing cookies 1-2 inches (2.5-5cm) apart.
- 7
Use a fork to gently, slightly flatten each cookie. If the cookie dough is sticking to the tines of the fork, dip the fork in a bit of powdered sugar first to prevent sticking.
- 8
Sprinkle cookies with nonpareils, jimmies, or sugar, if desired.
- 9
Transfer to 325F (165C) oven and bake for 12 minutes. Cookies will still be light in color when finished baking. Allow to cool completely on baking sheet before removing.
Whipped Shortbread Cookies
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About this Recipe
Looking for the easiest, most delightful cookie recipe to brighten your holiday season? These Whipped Shortbread Cookies are your answer, promising pure buttery bliss with minimal effort and no chilling required!
What makes these whipped shortbread cookies truly special is their delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture achieved through a unique creaming process. With just six simple ingredients, this recipe transforms pantry staples into an elegant treat that feels far more intricate than it is. The secret to their incredible richness and light crumb lies in generously whipping the butter and sugar, creating an airy foundation.
When you bite into one of these cookies, you'll experience an exquisite tenderness that dissolves on your tongue, leaving behind a satisfyingly rich, buttery flavor enhanced by a hint of vanilla. They have a delicate, slightly crumbly texture, characteristic of classic shortbread, but with an added lightness that makes them utterly irresistible. These cookies are a joy to make, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers, and you’ll love how quickly they come together, ready to enjoy in less than 30 minutes.
Customization & Serving Ideas
While delicious on their own, these shortbread cookies are wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different types of sprinkles, such as colorful jimmies, elegant nonpareils, or sparkling colored sanding sugar, to match any occasion or holiday theme. For a different flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of almond extract alongside the vanilla, or a touch of lemon zest for a brighter note.
These Whipped Shortbread Cookies are the ultimate festive treat, ideal for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of tea or coffee. They also make a beautiful, heartfelt homemade gift for friends and family.