Description
Whipped Shortbread Cookies are delicate, buttery treats that melt in your mouth. Made with softened unsalted butter whipped to light and fluffy perfection, powdered sugar, flour, and cornstarch, these cookies are subtly flavored with vanilla and lightly golden on the edges when baked. Perfect for holiday celebrations or as an everyday dessert, they can be topped with colorful sprinkles or maraschino cherries for a festive touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Toppings (Optional)
- Sprinkles
- Maraschino cherries
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Whip Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter using an electric mixer on medium speed until the butter becomes light and fluffy, which takes about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the cookie’s characteristic airy texture.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the whipped butter and continue beating until well combined and smooth.
- Incorporate Flavorings: Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor of the dough.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the all-purpose flour and cornstarch into the butter mixture, beating on low speed to avoid overworking the dough. Continue until the mixture forms a light, airy dough.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop or pipe small rounds of dough about 1 inch apart onto the prepared baking sheet. If desired, add sprinkles or place a small piece of maraschino cherry on top of each cookie for decoration.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the edges are just barely golden. This ensures the cookies remain tender and buttery.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the pan for a few minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Handle delicately as these cookies are fragile once baked.
Notes
- For a festive touch, use colored sprinkles or pipe the dough using a star tip for decorative shapes.
- These cookies are delicate and buttery—handle with care once baked to avoid breaking them.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to preserve freshness.
