Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. If desired, stir in the vanilla extract.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it into a smooth ball.
- Roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness and use a cookie cutter or shape by hand into your desired shapes.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. The cookies should remain pale.
- Allow the shortbread to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
These delicate and buttery shortbread cookies simply melt in your mouth with every bite. Perfect with tea, coffee, or as a simple treat any time of day!
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