Whipped Shortbread Cookies Recipe

These Whipped Shortbread Cookies are the kind of treat you’ll want to keep stashed in your cookie tin at all times! Feather-light, melt-in-your-mouth, and just the right amount of buttery sweetness, these cookies are a nostalgic favorite that’s both elegant and irresistibly easy. Whether you’re a cookie rookie or a seasoned baker, you’ll find delight in this simple recipe that yields bakery-worthy results every single time.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sometimes the best recipes are all about the basics, and these Whipped Shortbread Cookies prove it! Each ingredient has a specific role, ensuring the cookies bake up with that perfectly crumbly, delicate texture and rich, buttery flavor we all crave.

• Unsalted Butter: Use good-quality, room-temperature butter; this is the heart of the cookie, giving it that signature tender crumb and rich taste.
• Powdered Sugar: This fine sugar sweetens gently and helps create an ultra-smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• All-Purpose Flour: Adds structure and body, ensuring the cookies hold their delicate shape while staying soft.
• Cornstarch: The secret ingredient for keeping these cookies unbelievably light and airy rather than dense or heavy.
• Vanilla Extract: Just a splash lifts up all the flavors, making your kitchen smell like a dream as they bake.
• Salt: A tiny pinch enhances the sweet and buttery notes (optional, but recommended if your butter isn’t salted).
• Sprinkles or Candied Cherries (optional): For that festive, classic look that pops against the pale cookie base.

How to Make Whipped Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Grab a large mixing bowl and beat the unsalted butter together with the powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer for best results and whip away until the mixture is incredibly pale and fluffy. The longer you whip, the lighter your Whipped Shortbread Cookies will be, so don’t rush this step—3 to 5 minutes is ideal.

Step 2: Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients

Blend in the vanilla extract, then gradually sift in the flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt if using. Continue beating, but switch to low speed, so your kitchen doesn’t get showered in flour! Stop mixing once everything is just combined and the dough looks soft, like gently whipped frosting.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them out to give them room to spread. You can either use a small cookie scoop or two spoons. For that extra-classic look, gently flatten each mound with a floured fork or the bottom of a glass.

Step 4: Add Toppings (Optional)

If you’re feeling festive, press a maraschino cherry half or a pinch of colorful sprinkles into the center of each cookie. These little finishing touches make every cookie look special and inviting.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake your Whipped Shortbread Cookies in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for 15–20 minutes, just until the bottoms are lightly golden—they should not brown on top. Let them cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack, as they’re very delicate when hot.

How to Serve Whipped Shortbread Cookies

Garnishes

For a classic finishing touch, crown your cookies with a cherry half, a dusting of extra powdered sugar, or a scattering of festive sprinkles. A tiny drizzle of white chocolate can make them extra pretty for special occasions without competing with the delicate flavor.

Side Dishes

Whipped Shortbread Cookies are wonderful with a cup of tea, coffee, or even hot cocoa—try pairing them with chamomile tea or a rich espresso. They’re also lovely alongside fruit compote or a dish of berries for a light dessert platter.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange these cookies in a vintage tin lined with parchment for a gift that feels truly homemade. For holidays, stack them in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon, or create a colorful cookie board with assorted nuts, dried fruit, and candies for an irresistible display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, your Whipped Shortbread Cookies can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Place a sheet of parchment between layers so they don’t stick together, and store in a cool, dry spot for maximum freshness.

Freezing

To freeze, either store the baked cookies (separated with parchment) in a freezer-safe container, or freeze unbaked dough balls to bake off fresh later. Both methods work beautifully—thaw overnight at room temperature or bake dough straight from the freezer with just an extra couple of minutes in the oven.

Reheating

While Whipped Shortbread Cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature, you can revive the texture of day-old cookies by warming them gently in a low oven (about 250°F/120°C) for 3–4 minutes. Let cool slightly before serving for that freshly-baked feel.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Absolutely! If you have salted butter on hand, go ahead and use it—just skip any additional salt. The cookies will still turn out rich and delicious.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

This usually happens if the butter is too warm or the dough wasn’t whipped long enough. Try chilling your formed cookies in the fridge for 15 minutes before baking to help them maintain their shape.

Can I add other flavors to the dough?

Definitely! Almond extract, lemon zest, or a hint of orange would be fantastic in Whipped Shortbread Cookies. Just add them in with the vanilla and enjoy experimenting.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

The classic recipe uses all-purpose flour, but you can swap in a good-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for tasty gluten-free Whipped Shortbread Cookies. Check that everything you use (especially cornstarch) is certified gluten-free.

How can I make the cookies extra festive for the holidays?

Decorate them with red and green sprinkles, dips of melted chocolate, or pressed edible flowers for an elegant look. Whipped Shortbread Cookies are a blank canvas for all your creative touches!

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about a cookie that’s this simple yet totally unforgettable. I hope you’ll whip up a batch of Whipped Shortbread Cookies and share them with someone you love—or keep them all for yourself! Let these little cookies brighten your day and become a new family favorite.

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