Classic Buttery Shortbread Squares Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups of all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a medium bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour and salt.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until it is creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar to the butter, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, beating on low speed after each addition, until the dough just comes together.
Press the dough into an ungreased 9x13 inch baking pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the shortbread to cool in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares.

Tools for making

Mixing bowls - You'll need two bowls, one medium-sized for mixing the dry ingredients and one large-sized for beating the butter and combining the dough.
Electric mixer - An electric mixer will make it easier to cream the butter and mix the dough, but you can also mix by hand if preferred.
9x13 inch baking pan - This pan will be used to press and bake the shortbread dough.
Wire rack - A wire rack is necessary for allowing the shortbread to cool properly after baking.
Measuring cups and spoons - You'll need these to measure the flour, salt, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract accurately.

Recipe variations

Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option.
Add in chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) to the dough for added texture.
Mix in chocolate chips or dried fruit (such as cranberries or raisins) to the dough for a different flavor profile.
Swap the vanilla extract with almond or lemon extract for a different taste.
Create a chocolate shortbread variation by adding cocoa powder to the dough.
Try a different crust by using crushed graham crackers or digestive biscuits instead of traditional shortbread.
Add a layer of fruit preserves or jam on top of the shortbread base before baking.
Sprinkle the top of the shortbread with cinnamon sugar or colored sprinkles for a festive touch.
Make it savory by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough and serving it as a side with soups or stews.

Recipe overview

This Shortbread squares recipe is a simple and delicious treat, perfect for all occasions. The recipe uses basic ingredients, such as flour, butter, and powdered sugar, resulting in a buttery and crumbly shortbread square. These squares are a classic favorite, loved for their rich, buttery flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The process is straightforward, making it an excellent recipe for novice bakers. Expect to spend about 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and about 20-25 minutes baking. Once done, you'll have a delightful dessert that's perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome!

Common questions

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? Yes, you can use salted butter as a substitute, but it may affect the overall taste and saltiness of the shortbread squares.
Can I use a different type of flour, like whole wheat flour? It is best to use all-purpose flour for this recipe as it gives the shortbread squares the desired texture and taste. Using whole wheat flour may result in a denser and nuttier flavor.
Can I double the recipe to make a larger batch? Yes, you can double the recipe if you want to make a larger batch. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as the squares may take longer to bake.
Can I add other ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts? Absolutely! You can customize the recipe by adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruits to the dough. Just be mindful of the measurements and adjust the baking time accordingly.
How should I store the shortbread squares? Store the cooled shortbread squares in an airtight container at room temperature. They can stay fresh for up to a week.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing bowl - A medium-sized bowl for mixing the dry ingredients.
Large bowl - A large bowl for creaming the butter and mixing the dough.
Electric mixer - Useful for beating the butter and mixing the dough, although you can also mix by hand.
9x13 inch baking pan - An ungreased baking pan of this size is needed to bake the shortbread.
Wire rack - A wire rack is useful for cooling the shortbread after baking.
Knife or spatula - A knife or spatula is needed for cutting the shortbread into squares.

Origin stories

The buttery delight known as shortbread hails from Scotland, finding its first recorded instance in a 16th-century cookbook. However, the honor of perfecting this simple yet satisfying treat goes to Mary, Queen of Scots, who apparently had a penchant for Petticoat Tail shortbread, a version shaped like her favorite crinoline petticoats. Although our recipe is square in shape, it carries the echo of royal indulgence and centuries of Scottish tradition. A pleasure to make, an even greater delight to taste, shortbread is a testament to the magic that can happen when flour, butter, and sugar meet in perfect harmony.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.