Description
All-Butter Irish Shortbread is a classic, tender, and buttery cookie made with high-quality Irish butter for a rich flavor. This traditional Irish dessert features a crisp, golden edge and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, perfect for tea time or festive occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Shortbread Dough
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted Irish butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)
Topping
- 2 tablespoons extra granulated sugar for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8 inch round or square baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal after baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened Irish butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth, light, and fluffy. If using, mix in the vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and fine sea salt to evenly distribute the salt throughout the flour.
- Form Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter mixture, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the shortbread tender.
- Shape Dough in Pan: Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with the back of a spoon or your hands for an even surface.
- Prepare for Baking: Use a fork to prick the surface of the dough lightly all over to prevent puffing during baking. Sprinkle the extra granulated sugar evenly on top for a sweet, crunchy finish.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden but the top remains pale for the classic shortbread appearance.
- Cool and Cut: Remove the shortbread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. While still warm, cut into wedges or squares to create the traditional shape.
- Final Cooling: Let the shortbread cool completely before removing from the pan to maintain its shape and texture.
Notes
- Using high-quality Irish butter gives the shortbread a richer flavor and more tender texture.
- Do not overmix the dough, or the shortbread may become tough.
- For a traditional look, score the dough before baking so the pieces separate easily after baking.
