✨ Classic Tea-Time Shortbread

What You’ll Need

• 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, softened

• ½ cup powdered sugar

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp vanilla (optional but lovely)

How to Make

First — Cream
In a bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). Mix in vanilla if using.

Next — Add Flour
Slowly add flour and mix just until combined. Dough will look soft and slightly crumbly but should hold when pressed.

After — Shape
Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead 3–4 times to bring it together.
Roll to about ½-inch thick and cut into rectangles, circles, or press into a round pan and score into wedges.

Then — Chill (Important!)
Place shaped cookies in the fridge for 20–30 minutes. This keeps them from spreading and gives that signature dense bite.

Finally — Bake
Bake at 325°F for 18–22 minutes, until edges are just barely golden and tops still pale.

Cool completely before serving — they firm up as they rest.