These cookie’s roots date back to a classic and super simple shortbread from Scotland. Over time, this centuries old recipe has been adapted with variations that have emerged worldwide, adding cornstarch for an ultra-light texture.
Inspired by classic shortbread these cookies are the epitome of comfort food, especially at Christmas time. They are light, crumbly and leave a satisfying buttery aftertaste. The butter binds everything together, adding a velvety rich, creamy flavor.
I LOVE them for their simplicity and versatility. These cookies promise to make everyone happy with their buttery soft texture. You can change up the flavor easily by changing the flavor of your extract. To be a bit decadent dip them melted chocolate and do a light sprinkling of sanding sugar.
And the best part is the minimal amount of ingredients that deliver maximum flavor and you can whip them up in just 5 minutes creating a timeless dessert that appeals to EVERYONE.
ULTIMATE MELT-IN-YOUR-MOUTH COOKIES
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
1½ cups AP flour
½ cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon PURE vanilla extract (or flavor of choice for variation – almond, lemon, orange…)
A pinch of salt
Chocolate drizzle (optional)
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Crushed nuts for garnish (optional)
- Preheat your oven to 350°.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Sift together the AP flour, cornstarch, and salt in a bowl. Set aside.
- In a LARGE mixing bowl cream together softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add extract and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Mix until a soft dough forms. DO NOT OVER MIX or your cookies will be tough.
- Roll the dough into small 1 inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on a baking sheet.
- Gently flatten with the back of a spoon or a fork for texture.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Once cooled, dip or drizzle with melted chocolate, sprinkle powdered sugar, or garnish with crushed nuts if desired.
NOTES:
- Add zest, spices, or flavor extracts to suit your taste.
- Can EASILY be adapted for gluten-free or vegan diets.