Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Introduction
Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies offer a delightful twist on classic shortbread with a rich, caramel-like flavor from brown sugar. These buttery, tender cookies are simple to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Butter (1 stick), room temperature
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons light or golden brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the butter, brown sugar, and salt. Beat with an electric mixer for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Step 2: Add the flour and beat on low speed until the dough becomes crumbly. Use your hands to shape the dough into a smooth ball.
- Step 3: Gently roll the dough into a 10 to 11-inch log. Wrap it tightly in parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or up to 2 days.
- Step 4: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 5: Remove the dough log from the refrigerator and slice it into ¼-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife.
- Step 6: Arrange the slices on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Step 7: Bake for 19 to 22 minutes, or until the cookies turn a golden brown color. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even baking.
- Step 8: Transfer the baking sheet to a wire rack and let the cookies cool completely before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a deeper flavor, substitute half the brown sugar with dark brown sugar.
- Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract for a warm, aromatic touch.
- If you prefer crispier cookies, bake a few minutes longer but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before enjoying. Reheat briefly in a low oven if you prefer them warm.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough log can be refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking, which helps develop the flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have an electric mixer?
You can cream the butter and sugar by hand using a wooden spoon or whisk until fluffy. It will take a bit more effort but works well.
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Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies are buttery, tender, and lightly sweetened with golden brown sugar, giving them a rich caramel flavor. Perfectly crumbly with a delicate texture, they are easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients, making them an ideal treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Butter (1 stick), room temperature
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons light or golden brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Mix Butter, Sugar, and Salt: In a medium bowl, combine the room temperature butter, brown sugar, and salt. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, which ensures the sugar is well incorporated and the batter becomes creamy.
- Add Flour and Form Dough: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture while continuing to beat on low speed until the dough develops a crumbly texture. Then, use your hands to gather and gently shape the dough into a smooth ball.
- Shape and Chill Dough: Roll the dough ball into a log approximately 10 to 11 inches long. Wrap the log tightly in parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or up to 2 days to firm up the dough for easier slicing and better texture.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Slice the Dough: Remove the chilled dough log from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, cut it into 1/4-inch thick slices to create evenly sized cookies.
- Arrange Cookies: Place the cookie slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie to allow for slight spreading during baking.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 19 to 22 minutes until they turn golden brown. Halfway through baking, rotate the pan to ensure even coloring and crispness.
- Cool Completely: After baking, transfer the baking sheet onto a wire rack and let the cookies cool completely before handling or serving. This helps the cookies set and enhances their crumbly texture.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dough.
- Chilling the dough is essential to achieve clean cookie slices and prevent spreading during baking.
- You can substitute light brown sugar with golden brown sugar for a slightly different caramel flavor.
- Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness for up to one week.
- For added flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the dough before mixing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies, Shortbread, Brown Sugar Cookies, Easy Cookie Recipe, Butter Cookies, Homemade Cookies
