Whipped Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Introduction

These Whipped Shortbread Cookies are simple & delicious, with a wonderfully light and melt-in-your-mouth texture. This classic recipe requires just a few basic ingredients and comes together quickly with an electric mixer. For more delightful cookie ideas, try the Raspberry-Filled Almond Snow Cookies Recipe or the Easy Crème Brûlée Cookies Recipe.

Ingredients

These Whipped Shortbread Cookies deliver an incredibly light, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a delicate vanilla sweetness that simply dissolves on the tongue.

• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• Sprinkles (optional, for topping)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	12 minutes
Total Time	27 minutes

Context: These Whipped Shortbread Cookies come together about 20% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Gather and Prepare Ingredients

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for proper creaming. You’ll need unsalted butter, powdered sugar, all-purpose flour, and cornstarch. Sift the powdered sugar, flour, and cornstarch together to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, light texture in your These Whipped Shortbread Cookies.

Step 2 — Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the room-temperature butter on medium-high speed until it’s pale and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is very light and fully incorporated. This creaming process is crucial for the signature airy texture of These Whipped Shortbread Cookies.

Step 3 — Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the sifted flour and cornstarch mixture. Mix just until the dough comes together and no dry streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop gluten and make the cookies tough rather than tender.

Step 4 — Pipe or Shape Dough

Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip if you want decorative shapes. Alternatively, you can roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets. For uniform cookies, use a small cookie scoop.

Step 5 — Chill Dough (Optional but Recommended)

If time allows, chill the shaped cookies for 15–30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape better during baking and prevents excessive spreading. If you’re in a hurry, you can bake immediately, but chilling will improve texture.

Step 6 — Preheat Oven and Bake

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Bake the cookies for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are just barely starting to turn golden. The tops should remain pale—do not let them brown, as this indicates overbaking.

Step 7 — Cool Completely

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. These Whipped Shortbread Cookies are very fragile when warm, so handle them gently to prevent breakage.

Step 8 — Store Properly

Once completely cooled, store These Whipped Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Information

Calories	120
Protein	1g
Carbohydrates	10g
Fat	8g
Fiber	0g
Sodium	40mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Almond flour for all-purpose flour — Creates a gluten-free, lower-carb version with a nutty flavor and tender crumb.
• Coconut oil for butter — A dairy-free alternative that adds a subtle tropical note to these whipped shortbread cookies.
• Unflavored protein powder for part of the flour — Boosts protein content while maintaining the light texture of the cookies.
• Monk fruit sweetener for confectioners’ sugar — A lower-carb, zero-calorie sweetener that keeps the cookies delightfully sweet.
• Reduced-sodium butter or unsalted butter — Lowers sodium content, allowing the buttery flavor to shine without extra salt.
• Oat flour for all-purpose flour — A gluten-free whole grain option that adds a mild, wholesome flavor.
• Avocado oil for butter — A heart-healthy, dairy-free fat swap with a neutral taste, perfect for these whipped shortbread cookies.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair These Whipped Shortbread Cookies with a hot cup of Earl Grey tea or rich hot chocolate for a comforting treat.
• Serve These Whipped Shortbread Cookies alongside fresh berries and whipped cream for an elegant dessert platter.
• Offer These Whipped Shortbread Cookies with coffee or espresso at holiday gatherings or afternoon tea parties.
• Dust These Whipped Shortbread Cookies with powdered sugar and arrange on a vintage cake stand for a charming presentation.
• Gift These Whipped Shortbread Cookies in decorative tins or boxes tied with ribbon for a homemade holiday present.
• Create a cookie assortment by serving These Whipped Shortbread Cookies with other classic varieties like gingerbread or sugar cookies.

These Whipped Shortbread Cookies also make wonderful edible decorations—use cookie cutters for seasonal shapes and add a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra flair.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using warm butter, which prevents proper aeration during whipping. Fix: Ensure butter is cold but still pliable for maximum volume.
• Mistake: Overmixing after adding flour, resulting in tough cookies. Fix: Mix just until the flour disappears to maintain a delicate texture.
• Mistake: Skipping the chilling step, causing cookies to spread too much. Fix: Chill dough for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
• Mistake: Using a weak electric mixer, failing to achieve the required light, whipped consistency. Fix: Use a stand or powerful hand mixer on medium-high speed for 5–7 minutes.
• Mistake: Measuring flour incorrectly, leading to dry or crumbly cookies. Fix: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
• Mistake: Baking at the wrong temperature, causing uneven browning. Fix: Preheat your oven properly and use an oven thermometer to verify 325°F (163°C).
• Mistake: Overbaking, which robs These Whipped Shortbread Cookies of their signature melt-in-your-mouth quality. Fix: Bake just until the bottoms are lightly golden; they should not brown on top.
• Mistake: Adding extracts or flavorings too early, which can deflate the whipped butter. Fix: Incorporate vanilla or other extracts at the very end of the whipping process.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Refrigerate These Whipped Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Freeze These Whipped Shortbread Cookies in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm These Whipped Shortbread Cookies in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes until heated through, ensuring they reach a food-safe temperature of 165°F if previously refrigerated or frozen.

Proper storage keeps These Whipped Shortbread Cookies fresh and delicious for longer, whether you enjoy them chilled, frozen, or warm.

Conclusion

These Whipped Shortbread Cookies are a simple, elegant treat perfect for any occasion. If you enjoyed this recipe, try our Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies for a festive twist. Share your results in the comments and subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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FAQs

Why are these called whipped shortbread cookies?

They are called whipped shortbread cookies because the butter and sugar are beaten together until very light and fluffy. This whipping process incorporates air, giving These Whipped Shortbread Cookies their signature melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Can I make These Whipped Shortbread Cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and freeze it for up to three months. You can also store the baked These Whipped Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week.

Why did my cookies spread too much while baking?

This usually happens if your butter was too warm. For the best results with These Whipped Shortbread Cookies, ensure your butter is cool and your dough is chilled before baking. Also, avoid over-creaming the butter and sugar.