Shortbread cookies hold a special place in many hearts, evoking memories of childhood and cherished moments. Whether enjoyed plain or enhanced with a touch of vanilla, chocolate, or nuts, shortbread offers a delightful treat for every palate. But for those who appreciate simplicity, there’s a classic recipe that requires just three ingredients and delivers a batch of buttery perfection.
This simple recipe, found on the popular food website allrecipes.com, provides a foundation for creating a timeless treat. The recipe highlights the simplicity of shortbread, relying on just butter, sugar, and flour.
Three-Ingredient Shortbread: A Recipe for Nostalgic Delights
Ingredients:
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1/2 cup superfine sugar
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1.
Preheat
your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.2.
Combine
the softened butter and sugar in a bowl, using a spoon to blend the ingredients until they achieve a sandy texture.3.
Gradually
add the flour, incorporating it into the butter-sugar mixture. Knead the dough briefly, aiming for a crumbly consistency rather than a smooth one.4.
Press
the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use a fork to poke the dough all over, creating a slightly textured surface.5.
Bake
the shortbread in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes, or until it becomes set and lightly golden brown.6.
While
the shortbread is still warm, use a sharp knife to score the surface into squares or rectangles. This will create clean lines for breaking the shortbread into individual cookies once it has cooled.7.
Allow
the shortbread to cool in the pan for a few minutes before carefully lifting it out using the foil overhang. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.8.
Once
cooled, break the shortbread along the scored lines to create individual cookies.Creative Twists:
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. For a more decadent treat, try dipping half of each cookie in melted chocolate. Alternatively, sprinkle your favorite toppings, such as chopped nuts, dried fruits, or sprinkles, over the melted chocolate before it sets. These simple additions elevate the classic shortbread into a personalized masterpiece.
This recipe yields approximately 20 servings, perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying a leisurely afternoon tea. With its ease of preparation and delicious results, this three-ingredient shortbread is sure to become a cherished tradition in your home.