Melt-In-Your-Mouth Shortbread

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Melt-In-Your-Mouth Shortbread – Buttery, Tender & Perfect for Christmas

A timeless cookie made with just four ingredients—these shortbread bites are soft, snowy, and irresistibly festive.

Introduction: A Cookie That Defines the Season

When it comes to holiday baking, few treats are as beloved—or as simple—as classic shortbread. These Melt-In-Your-Mouth Shortbread Cookies are everything you want in a Christmas cookie: buttery, tender, and delicately sweet. With a texture so soft it practically dissolves on your tongue, they’re the kind of cookie that feels like a warm hug on a winter day.

Made with just four pantry staples, this recipe is a dream for busy bakers and perfect for gifting, cookie exchanges, or cozy evenings by the fire. Whether you dress them up with sprinkles or serve them plain, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these cookies so magical:

Base Ingredients:

  • Butter (1 cup, softened)
    The star of the show—adds richness and creates that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Confectioners’ sugar (½ cup)
    Sweetens the dough and contributes to the soft, delicate crumb.
  • Cornstarch (¼ cup)
    Lightens the texture and helps the cookies stay tender.
  • All-purpose flour (1½ cups)
    Provides structure and balance.

Optional Add-Ins: Vanilla extract, almond extract, citrus zest, or finely chopped nuts.

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cookie sheet
  • Wire cooling rack
  • Spatula or cookie scoop

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

No need to grease your cookie sheet—these cookies are buttery enough to release easily.

Step 2: Whip the Butter

In a large bowl:

  • Beat 1 cup softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy—about 2 minutes.

Tip: Room-temperature butter is key for proper aeration.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Stir in:

  • ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour

Beat on low speed for 1 minute, then increase to high speed for 3–4 minutes, until the dough is light and creamy.

Optional: Add ½ tsp vanilla or almond extract for extra flavor.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the cookie sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.

Use a cookie scoop for uniform size or roll into balls and flatten slightly.

Optional: Press with a fork or cookie stamp for a decorative touch.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 12–15 minutes, until:

  • Edges are just turning golden
  • Centers are set but still pale

Watch closely—these cookies brown quickly

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Let cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Dust with extra confectioners’ sugar if desired.

Yields:

  • 24–30 cookies, depending on size

Presentation Tip: Serve on a festive platter with holly sprigs or edible glitter.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Christmas cookie trays
  • Edible gifts
  • Afternoon tea
  • Cozy winter snacks

Pair with:

  • Hot cocoa or peppermint mocha
  • Mulled wine or spiced cider
  • Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream

Tip: Serve with a side of jam or lemon curd for a flavor twist.

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:

Citrus Shortbread

Add orange or lemon zest to the dough.

Chocolate-Dipped

Dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.

Nutty Delight

Fold in finely chopped pecans or almonds.

Vegan Version

Use plant-based butter and powdered sugar substitute.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Prepare dough up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate.
  • Refrigerate: Store baked cookies in airtight container for up to 1 week.
  • Freeze: Freeze baked cookies or dough for up to 2 months.

Tip: Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Nutrition Notes (Per Cookie, ~1 of 24)

  • Calories: ~120
  • Protein: ~1g
  • Carbohydrates: ~10g
  • Fat: ~8g
  • Sugar: ~4g
  • Sodium: ~40mg
  • Fiber: ~0.5g

These cookies are:

  • Buttery and tender
  • Sweet and snowy
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

These Melt-In-Your-Mouth Shortbread Cookies are more than just a holiday treat—they’re a celebration of simplicity, tradition, and pure buttery bliss. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just for yourself, they’re guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

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