Mean Chef’s Classic Shortbread Cookies πͺ
Overview:
Mean Chef’s Classic Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that brings the essence of tradition to your table. Originally shared by Mean Chef in 2003, this recipe has stood the test of time, offering a versatile base with three tantalizing variations. Whether you’re craving a classic buttery delight or feeling adventurous with chocolate or orange-hazelnut flavors, these cookies are sure to please. Plus, they’re perfect for any occasion, from everyday snacking to festive gatherings.
Recipe Information:
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 36-48 cookies
- Calories: 84.8 per serving
- Fat Content: 5.2g
- Saturated Fat Content: 3.2g
- Cholesterol Content: 13.6mg
- Sodium Content: 33.1mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 8.8g
- Fiber Content: 0.2g
- Sugar Content: 2.8g
- Protein Content: 0.9g
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 10 ounces all-purpose flour
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Line two baking sheets with parchment. |
| 2 | Combine butter, sugar, and salt in a stand mixer using the paddle attachment. |
| 3 | Mix on low speed until the butter combines with the sugar, but isn’t perfectly smooth, about 1-2 minutes. |
| 4 | Add flour and mix on low, scraping frequently, until dough has just about pulled together, about 3 minutes. |
| 5 | Be careful not to overmix. |
| 6 | Roll dough on a lightly floured surface to a uniform 1/4 inch thickness. |
| 7 | Cut dough into bars or squares with a sharp knife or use a cookie cutter. |
| 8 | Reroll scraps and refrigerate dough if it becomes sticky. |
| 9 | Arrange on baking sheets and refrigerate until chilled, about 20 minutes. |
| 10 | Position racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven and preheat to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. |
| 11 | Bake cookies until golden on the bottom and edges and pale to golden on the top, approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour. |
| 12 | Rotate baking sheets every 15 minutes for even baking. |
| 13 | Allow cookies to cool. |
Variations:
-
Brown Sugar and Oatmeal:
- Substitute brown sugar for white sugar.
- Add 1/2 cup quick-cooking oats with the flour.
-
-
Chocolate-Dipped Espresso:
- Add 2 tablespoons finely ground espresso coffee beans with the flour.
- Dip half of each cooled cookie into melted chocolate (9 oz semisweet chocolate melted with 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening).
- Place cookies on parchment-lined sheet pan to set up for approximately 2 hours.
-
Orange-Hazelnut:
- Add 2 1/2 ounces (1/2 cup) skinned, toasted, and finely ground hazelnuts (use a food processor).
- Add 2 teaspoons finely grated orange zest (loosely packed) from 1 orange along with the flour.
Conclusion:
Mean Chef’s Classic Shortbread Cookies offer a delightful blend of simplicity and versatility, making them a staple in any baker’s repertoire. Whether you stick to the classic version or venture into the realm of chocolate or citrus flavors, these cookies are sure to please your taste buds and impress your guests. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a timeless treat that’s bound to become a family favorite!
