Light, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth, these Whipped Shortbread Cookies are the perfect addition to your holiday baking lineup. With a delicate texture and a hint of sweetness, they’re sure to be a favorite on any dessert table. Their simplicity makes them a classic, while a festive sprinkle topping adds a touch of holiday charm.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light and Buttery Texture: Achieved by whipping the butter and sugar until ultra-fluffy.
- Quick and Easy: Just a handful of ingredients make these cookies simple and perfect for busy baking days.
- Versatile: Add your favorite sprinkles, edible glitter, or drizzle with chocolate for a custom touch.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sprinkles, for decorating
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Beat Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar for at least 5 minutes, or until very fluffy and light in texture. This step is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
To the butter mixture, add the flour, cornstarch, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies light and tender.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Dust your hands with a little cornstarch, then scoop and roll small portions of dough into balls (about 2 teaspoons to 1 tablespoon of dough each). Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1-2 inches apart.
Step 5: Press and Decorate
Gently press down the tops of the dough balls with a fork dipped in cornstarch to prevent sticking. Add a few sprinkles to each cookie for a festive, colorful touch.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set on top but not browned. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets and parchment paper
- Fork (for pressing down cookies)
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: These cookies are perfect with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. Serve them on a festive tray for holiday gatherings.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. These cookies also freeze well for up to 3 months.
Variations
- Flavor Additions: Substitute almond extract or lemon zest for a different twist on the classic flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Dip or drizzle the cookies with melted white or dark chocolate once cooled for a decadent finish.
- Nuts: Press a halved pecan or walnut onto the tops before baking for added flavor and texture.
Helpful Tips
- Extra Fluffiness: For the lightest cookies, beat the butter and sugar mixture for the full 5 minutes to aerate the dough.
- Uniform Size: Use a small cookie scoop to ensure even-sized cookies, which will bake evenly.
- Decorating: For a festive touch, use colored sprinkles or edible glitter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! These cookies keep well and can also be frozen. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.
What if I don’t have cornstarch?
Cornstarch helps make the cookies tender, but if you’re out, you can substitute an equal amount of flour.
Why are my cookies crumbly?
Whipping the butter and sugar until light and fluffy is essential for binding the ingredients well. Make sure your butter is softened to avoid any issues.
How do I get my cookies to hold their shape?
Chilling the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking can help prevent spreading, though it’s not essential with this recipe.
Can I add food coloring?
Yes! If you’d like colored shortbread, add a few drops of food coloring to the dough and mix until the color is uniform.
Enjoy the simplicity and timeless appeal of these Whipped Shortbread Cookies. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or your own sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to be a hit!
Whipped Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sprinkles for decorating
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Beat Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together for at least 5 minutes, until the mixture is very fluffy and aerated.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the flour, cornstarch, salt, and vanilla extract to the bowl, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Form the Cookies: Lightly dust your hands with cornstarch, then shape the dough into small balls, using about 2 teaspoons to 1 tablespoon of dough for each cookie.
- Press and Decorate: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets. Gently press down the top of each cookie with a fork dipped in cornstarch to prevent sticking. Add a few sprinkles on top of each cookie for a festive touch.
- Bake: Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the tops of the cookies look set but not browned. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For Extra Fluffiness: Be sure to beat the butter and sugar until light and airy for the best melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Decorating Ideas: Use colored sprinkles for a festive look, or add a dash of edible glitter for extra sparkle.