Effortless 4-Ingredient Shortbread Cookies: Buttery, Soft, and Irresistibly Crispy

Indulge in the simplicity and elegance of these effortless 4-ingredient shortbread cookies, which strike the perfect balance of buttery richness and delicate crunch. With just four basic ingredients, these cookies are wonderfully easy to make and provide a fudgy texture that's sure to delight. Whether you're a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is foolproof, guaranteeing soft, slightly crisp cookies every time.

Why you'll love it:

These shortbread cookies are the epitome of a simple bake, requiring minimal ingredients and effort but delivering maximum flavor and texture. The addition of cornstarch makes them exceptionally tender, while the right amount of powdered sugar lends a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the rich butter. They're ideal for those times when you're craving something sweet but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Perfect occasion:

These shortbread cookies are versatile enough for any occasion. Serve them as an elegant afternoon tea treat, wrap them beautifully for a thoughtful homemade gift, or simply enjoy them as a delicious snack with your morning coffee or evening tea. They're also perfect for holiday baking, as they can be easily personalized with different shapes and decorations to fit any festive celebration.

Decorating Tips:

For an extra touch of sweetness and added visual appeal, sprinkle the cookies with caster sugar right out of the oven. If you're feeling creative, dip half of each cooled cookie into melted chocolate and let it set for a chocolate-dipped version. For festive occasions, consider using cookie cutters in shapes appropriate to the theme of the event, such as stars for Christmas or hearts for Valentine's Day.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup + 2 tablespoons (250 g) softened butter
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 1/2 cup plain flour

Method:

1. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 150°C (300°F).
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a bowl, mix the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Add the dry ingredients: Sift the cornstarch and flour into the bowl. Mix gently until just combined to form a smooth dough.
4. Shape the cookies: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1cm thickness. Cut into rectangles (1 cm x 6 cm) or according to the desired shape. Prick each cookie three times with a fork to prevent it from swelling.
5. Coldness: Place the shaped cookies on a lined baking sheet. Place in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to firm up.
6. Cook: Bake the cookies for 15 to 20 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 130°C (250°F) and bake for another 10 minutes or until lightly browned.
7. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy these divine shortbread cookies, a classic treat that combines simplicity and indulgence, offering a perfect bite for any occasion!