These Whipped Shortbread Cookies are light, buttery, and so easy to make. A simple recipe for delicate cookies that melt in your mouth with every bite.

Introduction

Whipped Shortbread Cookies are the perfect treat for anyone who loves soft, buttery cookies that practically dissolve in your mouth. Unlike traditional shortbread, these cookies have an incredibly light texture, thanks to the simple act of whipping the butter and sugar together until it’s light and fluffy. The result? Cookies that are crisp around the edges yet soft and tender on the inside.

These cookies require just a few basic ingredients—flour, butter, sugar, and vanilla—making them an easy and fuss-free recipe for any occasion. They are perfect for holiday baking, tea parties, or as an everyday sweet treat. Best of all, this recipe is versatile! You can dress them up with festive sprinkles, press a cherry into the center, or dip them in chocolate. However you choose to enjoy them, these whipped shortbread cookies are sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• Pinch of salt
• Sprinkles or cherries (optional, for decoration)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Whip the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together using an electric mixer on medium-high speed for 3-5 minutes, or until light and fluffy. This step is key to creating the light texture of the cookies.
3. Add vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract until combined.
4. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the whipped butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Shape the cookies: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers. If desired, add sprinkles or press a cherry into the center of each cookie for decoration.
6. Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. The cookies should remain pale in color.
7. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Prepare

These Whipped Shortbread Cookies are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and just a handful of ingredients. The secret to their light, melt-in-your-mouth texture lies in whipping the butter and sugar for several minutes until it’s fluffy. Once the dough is mixed, simply shape the cookies, decorate them as you like, and bake until golden around the edges. They make a lovely addition to any holiday cookie tray or afternoon tea.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 18-20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Servings

This recipe makes about 24 cookies, depending on the size of each dough ball.

FAQs

1. Why is my shortbread dough too crumbly?
   If your dough feels too crumbly, you may have added too much flour. Be sure to measure your flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. If the dough is still dry, try adding a teaspoon of softened butter to bring it together.
2. Can I add flavorings to the dough?
   Absolutely! You can add different extracts like almond or lemon for a twist. For chocolate lovers, you can even add mini chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the dough.
3. Why do I need to use powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar?
   Powdered sugar creates a smoother and lighter texture in these cookies, contributing to their melt-in-your-mouth quality. Granulated sugar won’t achieve the same result.
4. Can I freeze these cookies?
   Yes, you can freeze both the dough and the baked cookies. If freezing the dough, shape it into balls and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. If freezing baked cookies, let them cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
5. How can I make them extra festive?
   You can top the cookies with colorful sprinkles, edible glitter, or even dip them in melted chocolate after they’ve cooled. Adding a maraschino cherry to the center of each cookie also gives a festive look.

Conclusion

Whipped Shortbread Cookies are a delicious, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s sure to become a family favorite. Their light, buttery texture combined with a subtly sweet flavor makes them perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to simple tea-time treats. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch of these delicate cookies in no time. Whether you enjoy them plain or dressed up with sprinkles and cherries, these cookies are guaranteed to bring joy with every bite!