Shortbread cookies with chocolate drops

Ingredients

Cookies

300 grams (2.5 cups) all-purpose flour
180 grams (3/4 cup) unsalted butter, softened
80 grams (2/3 cup) powdered sugar
20 grams (1 large) egg white
50 grams (1/4 cup) thermostable chocolate drops

Equipment

Mixing Bowl:
A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining your ingredients evenly. Tip: Use a glass or metal bowl for better temperature control.
Electric Mixer:
If you have one, an electric mixer will make creaming the butter and sugar a breeze. Tip: Start on a low speed to prevent an explosion of powdered sugar.
Spatula:
A silicone spatula is great for scraping down the sides of the bowl and ensuring all ingredients are well mixed.
Baking Sheet:
A non-stick or parchment-lined baking sheet ensures your cookies bake evenly without sticking. Tip: Leave space between the cookies to allow for spreading.
Cooling Rack:
To keep cookies crisp yet tender, transfer them to a cooling rack after baking.

Instructions

Step 1

1. In a bowl, beat the softened butter with powdered sugar at medium speed until creamy. Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.

Step 2

2. Add the chilled egg white and mix at low speed until just combined. For best results, use fresh, chilled egg white.

Step 3

3. Sift the flour and gradually add it to the butter mixture. Mix until the dough forms into crumbs and can be gathered into a ball. Sifting the flour helps in achieving a smoother texture.

Step 4

4. Shape the dough into a soft, elastic ball and divide it into 30-gram (1.05-ounce) pieces. Form each piece into a ball and then flatten it slightly.

Step 5

5. Decorate each flattened ball with chocolate drops, pressing them gently into the dough. Ensure the chocolate drops are thermostable to avoid melting during baking.

Step 6

6. Place the shaped cookies in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to chill. Chilling the dough helps the cookies retain their shape during baking.

Step 7

7. Preheat your oven to 410°F (210°C) using convection mode.

Step 8

8. Bake the cookies for 12-13 minutes or until they are golden brown. Keep a close eye on the cookies during the last few minutes to prevent over-baking.

Servings

These scrumptious cookies aren't just a treat; they're an experience! For a sophisticated presentation, serve them on a vintage platter. 🍪 Pair them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of chilled milk for the ultimate indulgence. 🥛

Hosting a party or get-together? Create a cookie tower or arrange them in little goodie bags for guests to take home. 🎉 These cookies also make a delightful addition to any potluck, picnic, or holiday gathering. 🌟

If you're feeling adventurous, try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or crumble them over a bowl of yogurt and fresh berries. 🍓🍦 The possibilities are endless, and with these cookies as your canvas, you can't go wrong!

Variations

Looking for a gluten-free option? Swap the regular flour for a gluten-free flour blend (1:1 ratio). 👍 This will ensure you still get that wonderful texture without any gluten.

For a vegan variation, replace the butter with vegan margarine and use a flax egg instead of egg whites. 🥥 A flax egg can be made by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and letting it sit for a few minutes.

Faq

Why does my cookie dough feel too soft?
This can happen if the butter was too warm when mixed. Simply chill the dough for a bit before shaping.
Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of thermostable ones?
Yes, but keep in mind they may melt more during baking. The taste will still be delicious!
What's the best way to store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Look for lightly golden edges. The center might look slightly underdone but will firm up as they cool.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Shape the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
How can I make the cookies chewier?
Try adding an extra egg yolk to the dough. This will increase moisture and give the cookies a chewier texture.