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
Scale
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
