Description

Springtime brings pastel colors, festive treats, and the joy of baking! Among the many Easter goodies, Easter shortbread cookies stand out as a simple yet elegant dessert. Their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture makes them a favorite for both kids and adults. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, gifting treats, or simply indulging yourself, these cookies are the perfect Easter delight.

Ingredients

Butter – The key to a rich, buttery flavor. Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best results.
Powdered Sugar – Provides a smoother texture compared to granulated sugar.
All-Purpose Flour – Creates structure while keeping the cookies soft.
Cornstarch – Helps achieve that melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:

Lemon or Orange Zest – Adds a refreshing citrus twist.
Almond Extract – A delicious alternative to vanilla.
Sprinkles or Chocolate Drizzle – Perfect for decorating festive cookies.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect buttery shortbread every time.

1. Preparing the Dough

Cream the Butter and Sugar – In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients – Stir in vanilla extract before slowly incorporating flour and cornstarch. Mix until a soft dough forms.

2. Rolling and Shaping the Cookies

Chill the Dough – Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Roll Out the Dough – Lightly flour a surface and roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick.
Cut into Shapes – Use Easter-themed cookie cutters (bunnies, eggs, chicks) to cut the dough.

3. Baking to Perfection

Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 325°F (163°C).
Bake the Cookies – Arrange cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool Completely – Let them cool before decorating.

Notes

Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread – Melt white or dark chocolate and dip half of each cookie for a sophisticated look.
Gluten-Free Shortbread – Substitute all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend.
Nutty Shortbread – Mix in finely chopped almonds or pecans for added crunch.
Fruity Twist – Add dried cranberries or apricots for a pop of flavor.

How to Store Easter Shortbread Cookies

To keep your shortbread cookies fresh and crisp, follow these storage tips:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to two weeks for extra freshness.
Freezing: Shortbread cookies freeze well! Place them in a ziplock bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

For more storage tips, check out this detailed guide on how to store cookies properly.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 Cookie
Calories: 120 kcal
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 35mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 20mg