Just a Few Minutes to Tea! The Easiest Shortbread Cookie Recipe

Sometimes, the simplest recipes are the best. These classic buttery shortbread cookies require just a handful of ingredients, come together in minutes, and pair perfectly with a warm cup of tea or coffee.

With their delicate, crumbly texture and melt-in-your-mouth buttery flavor, they’re the kind of cookies that never go out of style. Perfect for teatime, holiday trays, or a sweet homemade gift, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup granulated sugar (plus extra for sprinkling)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Cream Butter and Sugar
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

3. Add Flour and Salt
   Gradually add flour and salt to the mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. If using vanilla, mix it in at this stage.

4. Shape the Cookies
   Roll the dough into a log and slice into rounds, or use a cookie cutter for shapes. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Optional: Sprinkle with Sugar
   For extra sweetness and a light crunch, sprinkle a little sugar over the tops before baking.

6. Bake
   Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake — shortbread should stay pale.

7. Cool and Enjoy
   Allow cookies to cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm with tea or store in an airtight container.

Tips for Perfect Shortbread

• Use real butter — it’s the star ingredient for that rich, authentic flavor.

• Don’t overmix once the flour is added; this keeps the cookies tender.

• For a festive twist, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and let it set before serving.

• Store at room temperature — they actually taste better after a day or two!

These buttery shortbread cookies are proof that delicious things don’t have to be complicated. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have the perfect teatime treat ready in no time.