Butterscotch Shortbread Cookies
If you’re on the hunt for a sweet treat that brings a touch of nostalgia while still being utterly delectable, look no further than Butterscotch Shortbread Cookies. These delightful cookies combine the rich, buttery flavor of traditional shortbread with the sweet, caramel-like goodness of butterscotch and toffee bits. They’re perfect for dunking in your afternoon tea or coffee, and they make a wonderful addition to any cookie platter. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a subtle crunch, you’ll be coming back for seconds, or maybe even thirds!
What Sets This Recipe Apart
What makes these Butterscotch Shortbread Cookies truly special is the combination of simple ingredients that come together to create a luxurious taste and texture. The use of cornstarch in the dough results in a softer, more tender cookie, while the finely chopped butterscotch chips and toffee bits add a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. Moreover, this recipe is straightforward enough for bakers of all levels, making it an ideal project for a cozy afternoon in the kitchen.
What’s in the Bowl
To whip up these scrumptious cookies, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup butterscotch chips, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup toffee bits
Kitchen Gear Checklist
Before you start baking, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable:
- Mixing bowl: For combining your ingredients.
- Electric mixer: To cream the butter and sugar together effortlessly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key in baking.
- Baking sheet: Where your cookies will bake to perfection.
- Parchment paper: To line your baking sheet and prevent sticking.
- Cookie scoop or spoon: For portioning out your cookie dough.
- Cooling rack: To let your cookies cool properly after baking.
Cook Butterscotch Shortbread Cookies Like This
With your ingredients measured and your tools ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Butterscotch Shortbread Cookies.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden brown color.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent your cookies from sticking and make for an easy cleanup.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Set this mixture aside while you work on the wet ingredients.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This process typically takes about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Add Vanilla
Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add in the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 7: Fold in Butterscotch Chips and Toffee Bits
Gently fold in the finely chopped butterscotch chips and toffee bits using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 8: Portion the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie, as they will spread slightly while baking.
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Butterscotch Shortbread Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee, or simply on their own!
Substitutions by Diet
If you need to make some adjustments based on dietary preferences or restrictions, consider the following options:
- Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-free: Use a dairy-free butter alternative and ensure your butterscotch chips and toffee bits are dairy-free.
- Low-sugar: You can reduce the powdered sugar or use a sugar substitute suitable for baking.
- Vegan: Use a plant-based butter and a vegan-friendly powdered sugar.
Pro Perspective
Baking Butterscotch Shortbread Cookies is all about technique and personal touch. Here are a few tips to elevate your cookie game:
- Make sure your butter is truly softened—this means it should be at room temperature and slightly pliable, not melted.
- Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help the cookies maintain their shape and enhance the texture.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of maple extract along with the vanilla.
- Don’t skip the cooling step! Allowing cookies to cool on a rack helps them firm up and develop the perfect texture.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
If you find yourself with leftover cookies (which is rare!), here’s how to store them:
Butterscotch Shortbread Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, these cookies freeze beautifully! Just place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months.
To reheat, simply pop the cookies in a microwave for a few seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes until they are soft and delicious again.
Butterscotch Shortbread Cookies FAQs
Can I use regular sugar instead of powdered sugar?
While you can use regular sugar, powdered sugar is preferred in this recipe as it creates a smoother texture in the dough, leading to a more tender cookie. If you must use granulated sugar, be prepared for a slightly different texture.
What can I substitute for butterscotch chips?
If you don’t have butterscotch chips on hand, you can use caramel chips or even chocolate chips for a different, yet delicious flavor. Just be mindful of the overall sweetness when making substitutions.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they look a bit underbaked when you take them out of the oven.
Can I add nuts to the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts would make a lovely addition to the dough. Just make sure to chop them finely so they blend well with the other ingredients.
Wrap-Up
With their buttery texture and sweet butterscotch flavor, these Butterscotch Shortbread Cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re baking for yourself, a special occasion, or simply to share with family and friends, this recipe will not disappoint. Each bite is a reminder of the simple joys of homemade treats, making them a perfect addition to any cookie jar.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy the deliciousness that is Butterscotch Shortbread Cookies. Happy baking!
Butterscotch Shortbread Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt.
- Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 5: Add Vanilla. Add in the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
- Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures. Gradually add the dry mixture into the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Step 7: Fold in Butterscotch Chips and Toffee Bits. Gently fold in the butterscotch chips and toffee bits using a spatula.
- Step 8: Portion the Dough. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 9: Bake to Perfection. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Step 10: Cool and Enjoy. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for best results.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes to help maintain shape.
- Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Allow cookies to cool completely for perfect texture.
