Simple Homemade Shortbread Cookies Recipe

In a bowl or mixer, combine the butter and sugar. Beat them together until you achieve a creamy texture, similar to a fluffy cloud preparing to transform into delicious cookie dough!

Gradually add in the flour, along with a pinch of salt if your butter isn't salted. Stir with a spoon initially, then switch to using your hands. You want to create a soft crumb that will soon come together into a dough. Remember: don’t over-knead! The crumbly texture won’t appreciate too much handling.

Form the dough into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate it for 20 to 30 minutes. Let it rest just like you would after a long day; this will make it more pliable and even crumblier.

It's time for some creativity! Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 5 to 7 millimeters (0.2 to 0.3 inches). Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes like hearts, circles, or stars, or simply cut them into neat squares.

Preheat your oven to 160 to 170 degrees Celsius (320 to 340 degrees Fahrenheit). Bake the cookies for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on the edges; once they turn a light golden brown, they are done!

Allow the cookies to cool completely. This step is crucial as it enhances their crumbliness, tenderness, and overall perfection.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can add a hint of vanilla, grated orange zest, or some rosemary to give your shortbread a unique character. But even without those additions, these cookies are bound to shine on their own!