Print

Christmas Shortbread Cookies

Christmas Shortbread Cookies
Print Recipe

These Christmas Shortbread Cookies are a holiday classic made with just four simple ingredients. They bake up tender and buttery with crisp edges and a melt-in-your-mouth center. Perfect for cookie trays, gift boxes, or cozy afternoons with hot cocoa, this easy shortbread recipe is timeless, elegant, and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar on medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

  3. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.

  4. Add the flour in two batches, mixing just until the dough forms coarse crumbs that hold together when pressed.

  5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead into a smooth ball.

  6. Roll the dough to ¼-inch thickness and cut into desired shapes.

  7. Chill the cut dough for 10 minutes to help the cookies hold their shape.

  8. Arrange cookies 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.

  9. Bake for 18–20 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the edges are lightly golden.

  10. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Do not overmix: Overworking the dough can make cookies tough.

  • Use real butter: High-quality butter gives the best flavor.

  • Chill before baking: This prevents spreading and keeps clean edges.

  • Watch closely: Shortbread should stay pale with just lightly golden edges.

  • Flavor variations: Add lemon zest, almond extract, or dip in chocolate.

Find it online: https://tastyquickly.com/christmas-shortbread-cookies/