Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies

These Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. With just six simple ingredients, they offer a delightful twist on traditional shortbread. Their rich flavor and buttery texture make them an irresistible snack for gatherings, holidays, or cozy evenings at home. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or shared with friends, these cookies will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With only six ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and quick for bakers of all levels.
• Rich Flavor: The brown sugar gives these cookies a deep, caramel-like taste that sets them apart from regular shortbread.
• No Rolling Required: Forget about rolling pins! Simply shape the dough into logs for easy slicing.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are versatile enough for parties, gifts, or just a sweet treat at home.
• Long-Lasting Freshness: Store them easily at room temperature and enjoy their crunchiness for up to a week.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies, you’ll need just a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer
• Mixing bowl
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Plastic wrap
• Baking sheets

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer: These tools help you achieve a creamy texture by mixing the butter and sugar effectively.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy combining of ingredients without mess.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: These prevent sticking and ensure even baking, making cleanup effortless.

Ingredients

These simple 6-ingredient brown sugar shortbread cookies are a sweet, flavorful take on traditional shortbread. Made in 1 bowl without eggs or leavening, this buttery shortbread is soft yet dense with crisp, crumbly edges. Careful not to over-bake these. No rolling pin required!

Ingredients:
– 3/4 cup (12 Tbsp; 170g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
– 1 cup (200g) packed light or dark brown sugar
– 1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 and 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (100g) coarse sugar (such as this or Sugar in the Raw)

How to Make Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Mix Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl using a handheld mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter and brown sugar together on medium-high speed until completely smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla and beat until combined.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add the flour and salt to the mixture. Beat on low speed until incorporated. Then turn the mixer up to medium-high speed and beat until the dough comes together.

Step 3: Form Dough Logs

With lightly floured hands, divide the dough into two pieces. Roll each piece into an 8-inch log.

Step 4: Coat with Coarse Sugar

Pour coarse sugar onto a large plate. Roll each log in the sugar until fully coated on all sides.

Step 5: Chill Dough

Tightly wrap the logs in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (up to 5 days). Chilling is crucial for maintaining shape during baking.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 7: Slice Cookies

Remove logs from the refrigerator. Slice each log into twelve equally thick cookies. Place them on baking sheets about 2 inches apart.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Bake the cookies for 14–16 minutes, or until set and lightly browned around the edges. Allow cooling on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Enjoy these delightful Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies fresh out of the oven or stored away for later!

How to Serve Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies

Brown sugar shortbread cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience with a few serving suggestions. These cookies pair well with various accompaniments that enhance their rich flavor and buttery texture.

With a Cup of Tea

• Enjoy your cookies alongside a warm cup of your favorite tea. The sweetness of the cookies complements the soothing flavors of herbal or black teas perfectly.

Dipped in Chocolate

• Melt some dark or milk chocolate and dip half of each cookie into it. Allow them to set on parchment paper for an indulgent treat.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve these cookies with a side of fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries. The tartness of the berries contrasts beautifully with the sweet, buttery cookie.

As an Ice Cream Sandwich

• Take two brown sugar shortbread cookies and sandwich a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream between them for a scrumptious dessert.

Crumbled over Yogurt

• Crumble your cookies over a bowl of yogurt for added crunch and sweetness. This makes for a delicious breakfast or snack option.

Gift Them!

• Pack your brown sugar shortbread cookies in decorative boxes as gifts for family and friends. They make for thoughtful homemade treats during holidays or special occasions.

How to Perfect Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies

To ensure your brown sugar shortbread cookies turn out flawlessly, consider these helpful tips:

• Use room temperature butter: Softened butter blends better with sugar, creating a smooth dough that bakes evenly.
• Measure flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag, which can lead to dense cookies.
• Chill the dough: Chilling is essential for shaping the logs and prevents spreading during baking, resulting in perfect cookie shapes.
• Don’t over-bake: Keep an eye on your cookies in the oven; they should be lightly browned at the edges but still soft in the center.
• Experiment with flavors: Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to customize your cookies and elevate their flavor profile.
• Store properly: To maintain freshness, store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies

Brown sugar shortbread cookies can be paired with various side dishes to enhance their delightful taste. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Fruit Compote: A warm berry compote provides a tangy contrast that complements the rich flavor of shortbread.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie into melted chocolate for an indulgent treat everyone will love.
4. Cheese Plate: Pair with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a sophisticated twist on dessert.
5. Coffee or Espresso: A strong cup enhances the buttery notes in shortbread while providing a satisfying pick-me-up.
6. Milkshake: Blend up a thick milkshake using vanilla ice cream and milk, then crumble some cookies on top for extra flavor and texture.
7. Nut Mix: Offer assorted nuts on the side; their crunch provides a delightful contrast to the softness of the cookies.
8. Spiced Tea: A warm spiced tea enhances warmth while balancing out sweetness, making it perfect for cozy gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies can be a breeze, but a few common mistakes can ruin the batch. Here are some to watch out for:

• Ignoring the chilling time: Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the right texture. Don’t skip this step; aim for at least 4 hours in the fridge.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined and stop if the dough starts to feel too warm or sticky.
• Not measuring flour properly: Using too much flour can make your cookies dry. Always spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
• Overbaking the cookies: Keep an eye on them during baking. They should be lightly browned at the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.
• Using cold butter: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature. Cold butter doesn’t mix well and can affect the texture of your cookies.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Keep them at room temperature to maintain their texture.

Freezing Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies

• Wrap unbaked logs tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• You can also freeze baked cookies, layered between parchment paper in an airtight container.

Reheating Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up, but avoid overheating as this may make them chewy.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for about 2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies?

Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies are a delightful variation of traditional shortbread that uses brown sugar, giving them a rich flavor and soft texture.

How do I achieve perfectly crumbly edges?

To achieve crumbly edges, avoid overmixing the dough and ensure you chill it properly before baking.

Can I customize my Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies?

Yes! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to create variations that suit your taste.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly, Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies last up to one week at room temperature or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies are not only simple to make but also versatile enough to cater to various tastes. You can easily customize them with your favorite add-ins. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful combination of buttery goodness and sweet flavor!