Ingredients

Cookie Dough

300 grams all-purpose flour (2.5 cups)
200 grams unsalted butter, softened (1 cup)
100 grams powdered sugar (1 cup)
1 large egg

Toppings

M&Ms (for decoration)

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing the *softened butter* with *powdered sugar* until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it helps incorporate air into the dough, resulting in a *fluffy texture*.

Next, add in the *large egg* and mix until well combined. Slowly incorporate the *all-purpose flour* to bind everything together. The dough should be smooth and cohesive.

Step 2

Chill the Dough

Once your dough is ready, it's important to chill it. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about *10 to 15 minutes*. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.

Step 3

Shape the Cookies

After chilling, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface. Use cookie cutters to create flower shapes. If you like, press a few *M&Ms* into the center of each cookie for decoration.

Step 4

Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to *180°C (356°F)*. Place the shaped cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about *10 to 12 minutes* or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them as baking time may vary based on thickness.

Step 5

Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. These cookies are not only *delicious* but also *adorable*, perfect for sharing with your loved ones!

Servings

Once baked, these cookies are not just a treat; they are a celebration for the eyes and the taste buds! Serve them at your next picnic or tea party to really impress your guests. These cookies pair beautifully with a steaming cup of tea ☕️ or a glass of milk 🥛, where they can melt in your mouth with every bite. Add a touch of icing or sprinkles for that extra flair, and watch them become the centerpiece of any dessert table. Plus, they make for fantastic gifts when presented in a lovely tin or wrapped with a ribbon 🎀.

Thinking of a creative spin? Try decorating your cookies with some colorful M&Ms or fruit preserves for an added sweet twist. Don’t forget to snap a picture and share your creations; these fabulous cookies are Instagram-ready! 🌟

Equipment

Cookie Cutter (Flower Shape)

A flower-shaped cookie cutter adds a fun touch to your cookies. Invest in a quality metal cutter for clean edges and easy use.

Variations

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply substitute regular flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Your shortbread cookies will still retain that amazing texture! For the vegan version, you can replace the butter with coconut oil and the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). These adjustments will make your cookies suitable for a wider range of dietary needs without skimping on taste. 🥥🌾

Happy baking! 🌈

Faq

  • What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?

    If your dough feels too crumbly, add a tablespoon of cold water or milk until it comes together. Be careful not to add too much liquid!

  • Can I use different shapes for the cookies?

    Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cookie cutter shapes to suit any theme or occasion.

  • How can I make sure my cookies don't spread too much while baking?

    Chilling the dough for about 10-15 minutes before baking can help maintain the shape and minimize spreading in the oven.

  • What can I do to achieve a softer cookie?

    Bake your cookies for a shorter period of time, just until the edges are golden. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

  • Can I freeze these cookies?

    Yes, you can freeze the dough! Shape the cookies, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a sealable bag for later use. Just bake them straight from the freezer!

  • What is the best way to store the cookies to maintain freshness?

    Store in an airtight container at room temperature, and they should stay fresh for up to a week. If you want longer storage, consider freezing them!

Nutrition facts

Beautiful Five-Ingredient Flower Cookies
Recipe Yield:24 cookies
Calories:Approximate calorie range per cookie.
Calories (Min - Max):150 - 180
Total Fat:10g
Saturated Fat:6g
Protein:2g
Total Carbohydrate:15g
Total Sugars:6g