Bake rich, buttery cookies that truly melt in your mouth. This easy recipe delivers classic, shortbread-style treats perfect for tea time or holiday gifting.
Author:oliviarosewood
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:12 min
Total Time:27 min
Yield:24 cookies 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step helps achieve the melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Beat in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined and a soft dough forms. Do not overmix the dough.
Shape the dough into small balls or logs, or use a cookie press fitted with your desired shape. Place the cookies about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The centers should remain pale.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use high-quality European butter.
To get the perfect melt-away texture, chill the shaped cookies for 15 minutes before baking.
If you want a slightly crisp edge, bake for 13 minutes instead of 10.
These cookies are excellent for decorating with a light dusting of powdered sugar after cooling.