Delicious and Easy Scottish Whipped Shortbread Recipe
Imagine biting into a melt-in-your-mouth shortbread cookie that has the perfect amount of buttery flavor with just a hint of sweetness. Now, close your eyes and imagine that same cookie being whipped to perfection, making it even lighter and more delicate. This is what you can expect when you try out my Scottish Whipped Shortbread recipe.
As a chef specializing in British cuisine, I have always been drawn to the simplicity of Scottish shortbread. The combination of real butter, flour, and confectioners sugar creates a classic treat that will never go out of style. However, after experimenting with different techniques and ingredients, I discovered how to take this traditional recipe to the next level by whipping the ingredients into a cloud-like texture.
Not only is this recipe easy to make with only four simple ingredients, but it also yields delicious results every time. Whether you are looking for a new twist on classic shortbread or need an impressive cookie recipe for the holiday season, my Scottish Whipped Shortbread will surely impress your taste buds.
So, grab your apron and let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you are a fan of cookies, look no further than this Scottish Whipped Shortbread recipe. These cookies are unlike any other shortbread cookie you’ve ever tasted. They have a light, airy texture and practically melt in your mouth with a buttery flavor that is guaranteed to please your taste buds.
What sets this recipe apart from others is the secret ingredient – whipped cream! With just four simple ingredients of flour, cornstarch, icing sugar, and salted butter (softened to room temperature), plus the whipped cream, making these delicious Scottish whipped shortbread cookies has never been easier.
Whether you’re making Christmas cookies or looking to whip up a quick treat for family or friends, this easy shortbread recipe is perfect for you. The recipe does not require any special skills or tools, which makes it accessible to novice bakers as well. Just mix the ingredients in one large bowl, beat them thoroughly until fluffy and put them in the oven.
Whipped shortbread cookies have a delicate texture and a perfect sweetness that will leave an indelible impression on whoever tries them. Furthermore, you can also customize the thickness of the cookie according to your taste preference. You can make them thick or thin, whichever way you prefer.
Scottish whipped shortbread is a delightful snack that even complements any tea time snack perfectly. Once you try it, there’s no going back. So be sure to give this recipe a try and unlock the door to melt-in-your-mouth heaven!
Ingredient List
To make the perfect Scottish Whipped Shortbread, you will need 4 ingredients. One of the most important things to note is that using real butter will give your shortbread cookies an authentic buttery flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. So, make sure to use softened salted butter when making this recipe. Here are the other ingredients you will need:
- 1 pound (4 sticks) softened butter
- 1 cup icing sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
The Recipe How-To
Now, let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make Scottish Whipped Shortbread.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (4 sticks) salted butter, softened
- 1 cup icing sugar
- 2 cups cornstarch
- 3 cups purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together icing sugar, cornstarch, and flour.
- In another bowl or stand mixer, beat softened butter until light and fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract to the beaten butter and mix thoroughly.
- Gradually add the dry mixture (cornstarch, icing sugar and flour) into the creamed butter mixture and beat on low speed until well combined.
- Increase mixer speed to medium-high for about 7-8 minutes (or use handmixer) or until dough becomes light in color and texture changed to become soft and fluffy.
- Use a teaspoon or cookie press, drop dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet about 1 inch apart and sprinkle with some extra granulated sugar if you’d like.
- Bake for 25-35 minutes until lightly golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool for at least 10 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring cookies to a wire rack or platter.
Enjoy perfect melt-in-your-mouth Scottish whipped shortbread cookies with your favorite tea!
Substitutions and Variations
Now, let’s have some fun with the recipe and try out different substitutions and variations for your Scottish Whipped Shortbread cookies! Here are some possible options to consider:
– Flour: Instead of using all-purpose flour, you can use rice flour or a combination of rice flour and all-purpose flour (use 1 cup of rice flour and 2 cups of all-purpose flour). Note that this will give your shortbread a slightly different texture and flavor.
– Sugar: If you prefer your cookies less sweet, you can reduce the amount of icing sugar in the recipe by 1/4 or 1/2 cup. Alternatively, you can substitute the icing sugar with corn syrup or brown sugar for a caramel-like taste.
– Butter: While I highly recommend using real butter for its rich and buttery flavor, you could also use vegetable shortening or a combination of butter and shortening for a lighter texture. Keep in mind that this will affect the taste and aroma of your cookies.
– Vanilla extract: For a subtle twist on the classic recipe, you can add other flavorings instead of vanilla extract. Try using almond extract, lemon zest, cinnamon, or cardamom to make your shortbread stand out.
– Toppings: You can decorate your whipped shortbread cookies with chocolate chips, candied fruits, chopped nuts, sprinkles, citrus slices, or jams. The possibilities are endless! Experiment with various toppings and see what combinations work best for you.
By trying different substitutions and variations, you’ll discover new flavors and textures that will make your Scottish Whipped Shortbread cookies even more delightful. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make these cookies truly your own!
Serving and Pairing
Scottish whipped shortbread cookies can easily steal any show on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of complimentary flavors. These buttery melt-in-your-mouth cookies are the perfect afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee or even as an after-dinner treat.
To really put these whipped shortbread cookies over the top, try serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The sweetness of the cream and mildness of the ice cream will nicely balance out the rich buttery flavor of the cookies.
Another great pairing for Scottish whipped shortbread is fruit compote or fruit preserves. You can’t go wrong topping these delightful cookies with raspberry, blueberry, strawberry, or apricot jam. Or for a warm, cozy treat on a chilly winter day, serve your shortbread cookies alongside a mug of hot cocoa.
If you’re feeling extra creative in the kitchen, try using these cookies in a festive dessert recipe. Using Scottish whipped shortbread to make mini tart shells or crumble toppings for pies and cheesecakes is an excellent way to elevate traditional desserts and add a unique touch to your holiday spread.
No matter how you decide to enjoy them, these easy-to-make and deliciously soft Scottish whipped shortbread cookies are sure to impress.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Now that you’ve whipped up a batch of scrumptious Scottish Whipped Shortbread Cookies, you may be wondering what to do with them. Fear not! These cookies can easily be made ahead and stored for later consumption.
To make these cookies ahead of time, simply follow the recipe instructions and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like to store them longer, place them in the freezer in a resealable plastic bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving.
If you have leftovers (which is quite unlikely), these cookies will stay fresh for several days when stored properly. Just keep them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature.
When it comes to reheating these shortbread cookies, I wouldn’t recommend it as they already melt in your mouth and have a buttery flavor that doesn’t need warming up. However, if you really want to warm them up, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or place them on a baking sheet and heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes.
Now that you know how to store and reheat these delectable treats, feel free to make extra so you always have some on-hand whenever your sweet tooth strikes. There’s nothing like enjoying a melt-in-your-mouth shortbread cookie on a cold winter day with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
Tips for Perfect Results
If you’re looking to make perfect whipped shortbread cookies, there are a few tips and tricks that can help. The first tip is to use real butter instead of vegetable shortening. Real butter provides a rich and buttery flavor that melts in your mouth, making your shortbread extra delicious.
Another important tip is to make sure your butter is softened at room temperature before using it in the recipe. This will help it blend well with the other ingredients and create a smooth dough that’s easy to work with.
When it comes to measuring your flour and icing sugar, it’s important to spoon them into the measuring cup and level off the top with a straight edge. This helps ensure that you’re getting an accurate measurement so that your cookies turn out just right.
For those who want a gluten-free option, try substituting rice flour for part of the all-purpose flour. It gives the cookies a slightly different texture than traditional Scottish whipped shortbread, but many people enjoy this variation.
Lastly, Christmas is almost upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by baking some delectable Christmas shortbread? Decorate with ribbons or candy cane pieces after baking for a festive touch.
By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to making perfect whipped shortbread every time. So go ahead and try out this easy shortbread cookie recipe for your next holiday gathering or special occasion!
FAQ
As you prepare to make your Scottish whipped shortbread, it’s natural to have questions about the recipe ingredients, how to make perfect whipped shortbread, and any substitutions or variations you can try. I’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about this easy shortbread recipe, so you can confidently bake these melt-in-your-mouth cookies whipped shortbread cookies. Let’s dive into the FAQ section to get all of your queries answered!
What is the difference between Scottish shortbread and shortbread?
Scottish cookies have a unique texture and flavor that sets them apart from Walkers shortbread cookies. Unlike Walkers which primarily uses butter, Scottish cookies may use vegetable shortening or a combination of butter and vegetable shortening, resulting in a crisper, firmer, and crunchier texture.
What is the secret to good shortbread?
As a British cuisine specialist, I’ve learned that one of the keys to creating a delicious, savory buttery pastry is selecting high-quality butter. Any brand of real, good quality butter will work perfectly in pastry dough. Another crucial tip is keeping the ingredients simple, as too many ingredients can take away from the pure, luxurious buttery taste. Add flavor to this dough using suitable ingredients that can bring out the buttery flavor. Don’t overwork the dough, as it can cause gluten formation which can lead to an unattractive or tough texture. Ensure you shape the dough into the desired shape and chill it for a while before baking. This enhances the texture and prevents the pastry from being a gloppy mess during baking. Bake until it’s golden, and lastly, to finish up the dish, add some delightful toppings to your dish.
Why are my whipped shortbread flat?
The texture of whipped shortbread cookies is dependent on the butter being optimally softened. When the butter is too warm or soft, it loses its ability to hold air during the creaming process. This results in the cookies being less airy and more dense than desired. Additionally, over-softened butter may cause the dough to spread excessively during baking.
What makes Scottish shortbread Scottish?
According to history, Petticoat Tails, a type of thin and crunchy shortbread, was a favorite of Mary, Queen of Scots, who lived during the mid-16th century, and it was believed to be made with caraway seeds.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Scottish Whipped Shortbread recipe is a must-try for any cookie enthusiast looking for soft, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth shortbread cookies. With only four ingredients and simple steps to follow, this recipe is easy for even the most novice bakers out there to create perfect whipped shortbread every time. What’s more, you can customize this recipe to suit your taste by adding rice flour or vegetable shortening or swapping the icing sugar for confectioners sugar.
So why not give this recipe a try and enjoy one of Scotland’s most famous desserts right from your kitchen? Whether you’re making it as a sweet treat for yourself or sharing it with friends and family during the festive season, these cookies will be a crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to experiment with different serving and pairing options like hot chocolate or Earl Grey tea to enhance the experience further.
The Scottish Whipped Shortbread recipe is undoubtedly one of the best cookie recipes out there, so go ahead and make it for yourself. Furthermore, use my tips and tricks for perfect results every time. Your taste buds will thank you!
Scottish Whipped Shortbread Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups salted butter, sofened (margarine won't do)
- 1 cup icing sugar
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 3 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Line cookie sheat with parchment paper if possible.
- Cream butter.
- Sift together icing sugar, cornstarch, and flour.
- Add dry ingredients and vanilla to the butter and beat until consistency of whipped butter.
- Drop by teaspoon onto parcment lined baking sheet. Or can use a cookie gun with star tip or sprtiz tip to form cookies.
- May decorate with small pieces of green or red cherries or colour sprinkles.
- Bake at 350°F (180°C) or 15-20 minutes.
- Stores well in covered tin.
Nutrition
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Brian is a British chef cum food blogger who has been in the kitchen since he was a young lad. Growing up in Manchester, he developed a passion for cooking and a keen eye for the perfect dish. He now runs his own blog and YouTube channel, which is dedicated to sharing his passion for food with the world.