Whipped Shortbread Cookies Recipe: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Holiday Perfection

Nothing says holidays quite like the delicate, buttery texture of Whipped Shortbread Cookies. These cookies are light, airy, and practically dissolve in your mouth, making them a family favorite for generations. What’s even better? This recipe only calls for four simple ingredients—with countless ways to customize and decorate. Whether you’re a baking pro or just getting started, these cookies will be your go-to for holiday cheer.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Whipped Shortbread Cookies are:

• Effortlessly Elegant: With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you get bakery-style cookies.
• Incredibly Versatile: Dress them up with sprinkles, chocolate, or jam, or keep them classic for a timeless treat.
• Perfect for Gifting: Their delicate texture and gorgeous presentation make them ideal for cookie platters and gift boxes.

And let’s not forget the taste: pure buttery goodness with a hint of sweetness. These cookies have a melt-in-your-mouth quality that’s second to none.

Looking for more holiday cookie inspiration? Check out these recipes for Italian Anise Cookies or adorable Polar Bear Cookies.

Ingredients for Whipped Shortbread Cookies

You only need a handful of pantry staples for this recipe:

• 3 cups unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (sifted for extra fluffiness)
• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (use the spoon-and-sweep method for accuracy)
• 1 1/2 cups cornstarch

Optional Additions

• Sprinkles, colorful candies, or chocolate for decoration
• Jam, caramel, or fruit curd for filled thumbprint cookies

Tools You’ll Need

• Stand mixer with a paddle attachment
• Sifter for the powdered sugar
• Baking sheets
• Fork or spoon for shaping

How to Make Whipped Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving that airy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 3: Mix in Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and cornstarch. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture in three additions, mixing until well incorporated.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Scoop the dough by the tablespoon and roll it into small balls with your hands. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.

• For pressed cookies: Flatten gently with a fork and add sprinkles before baking.
• For thumbprint cookies: Create an indentation with your thumb or a spoon and fill it with jam before baking or leave it empty to fill later.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20 minutes, then let the cookies cool on the pan. They’ll firm up as they cool, so don’t move them too quickly!

Step 6: Decorate (Optional)

Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or add additional sprinkles for extra flair.

What to Serve with Whipped Shortbread Cookies

Pair these delicate cookies with a cup of hot cocoa, a steaming latte, or a festive holiday cocktail. They’re also excellent alongside a creamy dessert like Sugar Cookie Cheesecake.

Tips for Perfect Whipped Shortbread Cookies

• Use Softened Butter: Cold butter won’t whip properly, and overly melted butter will affect the texture.
• Sift Dry Ingredients: This ensures a lump-free, airy dough.
• Don’t Overbake: The cookies should remain pale and soft. Baking too long will make them crumbly.
• Experiment with Flavors: Add a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract for a subtle flavor boost.

Storage Instructions

Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months—just thaw before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid overpowering the sweetness.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.

Why is my dough too sticky to handle?
Chill the dough in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to make it easier to work with.

Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! Roll it into balls and freeze them on a tray. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

Ready to Bake?

These Whipped Shortbread Cookies are as fun to make as they are to eat. Their simplicity and elegance make them a must-have for the holiday season. Whether you’re filling your cookie tins or adding a sweet touch to a dessert table, they’re guaranteed to impress.

For more festive treats, explore our Italian Anise Cookies, Polar Bear Cookies, and Sugar Cookie Cheesecake.

Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest at EMMARECIPES18 for even more baking inspiration. And if you try this recipe, let us know how it turns out—tag us in your photos!

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