Easy Shortbread Recipe

This Easy Shortbread is buttery, crumbly, and melts in your mouth. A timeless classic that is quick to make and perfect for any occasion.

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1 cup Butter
1/3 cup Icing Sugar
1/3 cup Cornflour
1/4 cup Sugar
1/2 tsp Vanilla Essence
2 1/3 cups Plain Flour

Preheat your oven to 180°C.
Melt 1 cup butter over low heat or in the microwave, then allow it to cool slightly.
Sift together 1/3 cup cornflour and 1/3 cup icing sugar into a mixing bowl.
Add 1/4 cup sugar, the cooled butter, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla essence to the bowl.
Beat the mixture until thick and creamy.
Sift in 2 1/3 cups plain flour and mix well until combined.
Press the dough evenly into a greased or lined 18 cm x 28 cm baking tray.
Smooth the top with the back of a spoon or spatula.
Mark into fingers with a knife and prick each finger with a fork.
Bake for 30 minutes or until light golden brown.
While still hot, cut into fingers, then allow to cool completely.
Store in an airtight tin to keep fresh.

Don’t overbake – Shortbread should be pale golden, not dark brown, to maintain its melt-in-the-mouth texture.
Chill the dough – For a neater shape, chill the dough in the tray for 15 minutes before baking.
Add flavour twists – Try adding lemon zest, orange zest, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a different flavour profile.
Use real butter – For the best taste and texture, use real unsalted butter instead of margarine.

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