Make melt-in-your-mouth whipped shortbread cookies that are light, fluffy, and incredibly buttery. This simple recipe uses just a few pantry staples for classic holiday baking treats.
Author:sarahthompson
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:12 min
Total Time:27 min
Yield:About 3 dozen cookies 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and 1 cup of powdered sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture is very light and fluffy. This whipping step is key for the texture.
Beat in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and cornstarch.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix once the flour is added.
Place the dough into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip (or use a cookie press). Pipe small rosettes or desired shapes onto the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and very lightly golden. They should remain pale.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cool, dust generously with extra powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
For a festive touch, press a red or green sprinkle into the center of each cookie before baking.
If you prefer a slightly crispier cookie, increase the baking time by 1-2 minutes, but watch closely to prevent browning.
This recipe makes excellent buttery sugar cookies that pair well with tea time.