Classic Scottish Shortbread for Your Christmas Cookie Tray Recipe
There is nothing quite as nostalgic or heartwarming as making Classic Scottish Shortbread for Your Christmas Cookie Tray. These buttery golden cookies melt in your mouth and bring a timeless charm to any holiday spread. Made with just a handful of simple ingredients, Scottish shortbread has a delicate crumb and light sweetness that never goes out of style. Whether you’re cozying up by the fire, sharing treats with friends, or hunting for the perfect edible gift, these cookies will quickly become your most requested Christmas classic!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather just a few staples from your pantry and you’re on your way to making the best Classic Scottish Shortbread for Your Christmas Cookie Tray. Quality matters here! Each ingredient delivers a crucial touch—the taste, texture, and buttery snap all depend on these simple, essential pieces.
- Unsalted butter, softened (1 cup): The heart and soul of shortbread—choose the best you can find for ultra-buttery flavor and rich texture.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Adds just enough sweetness and gives the cookies their signature crispness without being overpowering.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): This is what holds everything together, ensuring a crumbly, tender cookie every time.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just a pinch brings all the flavors into focus and keeps the sweetness balanced.
- Vanilla extract, optional (1 teaspoon): For a hint of warmth and beautiful aroma, vanilla is lovely, but traditionalists can leave it out.
How to Make Classic Scottish Shortbread for Your Christmas Cookie Tray
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Start with butter so soft it yields easily to your touch—this is your shortcut to that signature delicate crumb! In your largest mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Don’t rush this step! Creaming ensures each bite of your Classic Scottish Shortbread for Your Christmas Cookie Tray will be melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
Step 2: Add Vanilla (Optional)
If you’re a fan of that subtle aromatic lift, mix in the vanilla extract at this stage. It’s not strictly traditional, but it does add a gentle warmth and depth that some shortbread lovers can’t live without!
Step 3: Mix in Flour and Salt
Gradually add the flour and salt to your creamed butter and sugar, mixing just until the dough comes together. Don’t overwork it! The goal is a cohesive, slightly crumbly dough—this is where the iconic texture of Classic Scottish Shortbread for Your Christmas Cookie Tray is born.
Step 4: Knead and Shape
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead until it’s smooth and holds its shape. Roll the dough out to about 1/2 inch thickness, then cut into festive shapes with your favorite cookie cutters or slice into classic shortbread fingers for a traditional touch. It’s your chance to personalize every tray.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Lay your shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet and gently prick each cookie several times with a fork—this keeps them flat and bakes in that just-right, old-fashioned look. Slide them into a preheated 325°F (163°C) oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the edges are just turning gold. They’ll firm up as they cool, revealing the classic sandy texture we all love.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Once done, allow the cookies to cool on the tray for five minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack. This lets them set and reach that irresistible, buttery crunch. Cue the holiday magic: your Classic Scottish Shortbread for Your Christmas Cookie Tray is ready to share (if you can resist eating them all first)!
How to Serve Classic Scottish Shortbread for Your Christmas Cookie Tray
Garnishes
While these cookies shine on their own, a dusting of powdered sugar or a quick dip in melted chocolate gives them a festive sparkle. You can also top some with colorful holiday sprinkles for extra cheer—just enough to catch the eye on your cookie tray.
Side Dishes
Pair your Classic Scottish Shortbread for Your Christmas Cookie Tray with a cozy cup of hot cocoa, traditional Scottish tea, or even a glass of mulled wine for grownups. A platter of seasonal fruits or dried apricots provides a lovely contrast and complements the buttery cookies beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Shortbread cookies make delightful homemade gifts. Stack them in clear cellophane bags tied with tartan ribbons, arrange them in vintage tins, or nestle them among other holiday treats on a Christmas cookie tray. Their simple elegance means they fit in anywhere, from casual gatherings to formal holiday parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Classic Scottish Shortbread for Your Christmas Cookie Tray in an airtight container at room temperature. Layer the cookies between sheets of wax or parchment paper to keep them looking pretty and fresh. Properly stored, they stay crisp and delicious for up to two weeks.
Freezing
Shortbread is freezer-friendly, making holiday prep a breeze! Once completely cooled, layer cookies in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. They’ll keep their buttery flavor and delicate crunch for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
If you prefer serving your shortbread warm or want to revive a little extra crispness, arrange cookies on a baking sheet and heat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 2–3 minutes. Let them cool just enough to handle—then enjoy that fresh-baked aroma all over again!
FAQs
Can I use salted butter in Classic Scottish Shortbread for Your Christmas Cookie Tray?
Yes, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand! Just omit the added salt in the recipe and taste your dough—sometimes a little less is more for the perfect balance.
Why do I need to prick the cookies before baking?
Pricking your shortbread allows steam to escape, keeping your Classic Scottish Shortbread for Your Christmas Cookie Tray flat and giving it the signature dimpled appearance. It’s a little detail that truly matters for texture and tradition.
Can I double or halve the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is easily scaled up for a crowd or down if you just want a few treats. Keep an eye on baking time when changing batch sizes, since oven performance can vary with more or fewer cookies.
Is it necessary to chill the dough before baking?
For best results, chilling isn’t required, but if your kitchen is very warm, a brief chill (about 15 minutes in the fridge) can help cookies hold their shapes even better as they bake.
Can I add flavors or mix-ins?
Traditionalists may balk, but for a twist, you can add citrus zest, finely chopped nuts, or dip finished cookies in chocolate. The base of Classic Scottish Shortbread for Your Christmas Cookie Tray is wonderfully adaptable!
Final Thoughts
Few cookies evoke the spirit of the season quite like Classic Scottish Shortbread for Your Christmas Cookie Tray. With its irresistible buttery crumb and timeless simplicity, this recipe will earn a forever place in your holiday baking traditions. So gather your ingredients, share the warmth, and treat your loved ones today—your Christmas cookie tray will thank you!
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Classic Scottish Shortbread for Your Christmas Cookie Tray Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of Classic Scottish Shortbread this holiday season. These cookies are a must-have for your Christmas cookie tray, with their melt-in-your-mouth texture and irresistible flavor.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract if using.
- Mix in flour: Gradually mix in flour and salt until the dough comes together.
- Knead and shape: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead until smooth. Roll the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness and cut into desired shapes.
- Bake: Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Prick each cookie several times with a fork. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool and enjoy: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For traditional flavor, use pure butter and avoid overworking the dough.
- Store shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Scottish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
