Save to Pinterest Tender, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread cookies with a sweet touch of honey and rich buttery flavor perfect for teatime or as a delightful homemade gift.
This recipe brings back fond memories of sharing treats with family during cozy afternoons.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (240 g)
- Fine sea salt: 1/2 tsp
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (225 g), softened
- Powdered sugar: 1/2 cup (60 g)
- Honey: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Pure vanilla extract: 1 tsp
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) Line two baking sheets with parchment paper
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In a medium bowl whisk together the flour and salt set aside
- Mix wet ingredients:
- In a large bowl beat the softened butter powdered sugar honey and vanilla extract until light and fluffy (about 2 3 minutes)
- Combine ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture mixing on low speed until just combined Do not overmix
- Prepare dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface Gently knead it together then roll it out to about 1/2 inch (1 25 cm) thickness
- Cut shapes:
- Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters and place cookies 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets
- Optional chill:
- Chill the cut cookies on the baking sheet for 10 minutes to help retain their shape during baking
- Bake:
- Bake for 13 15 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden
- Cool:
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely
Save to Pinterest This recipe has become a family favorite enjoyed by all generations at gatherings.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls Electric mixer or stand mixer Rolling pin Cookie cutters Baking sheets Parchment paper Wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) dairy (butter) Check vanilla extract and powdered sugar for potential allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 120 Total Fat 7 g Carbohydrates 14 g Protein 1 g per cookie
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Enjoy these honey butter shortbread cookies as a perfect treat for any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of flour works best for these shortbreads?
All-purpose flour provides a tender crumb, but substituting half with whole wheat adds a nuttier flavor and denser texture.
- → How can I make the cookies crisper?
Baking an extra 1–2 minutes gives the cookies a crisper edge without drying out the center.
- → Can I use different sweeteners instead of honey?
While honey adds unique sweetness and moisture, maple syrup or agave can be alternative sweeteners, though texture may vary slightly.
- → Is chilling the dough necessary?
Chilling helps the cookies retain their shape during baking and improves texture by allowing the butter to firm up.
- → What are some serving suggestions?
These buttery treats pair wonderfully with tea or coffee and can be enhanced by drizzling extra honey or dipping in melted chocolate.
- → Are there common allergens in these shortbreads?
Yes, they contain wheat (gluten) and dairy from butter; check other ingredients like vanilla extract for allergens.