Grandma Mables' Shortbread
Grandma Mables' Shortbread offers buttery, crumbly cookies with a hint of sweetness, perfect for holiday gatherings or teatime treats, customizable with cherries for added flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the butter and add the brown sugar, beating well until blended.
- Gradually add about 4 1/4 cups of flour and mix until the dough cracks, using hands if necessary.
- Roll out the dough to a thickness of 1/2 to 3/4 inch.
- Cut the dough into desired shapes and place on ungreased baking sheets.
- Decorate with cut-up cherries on top of each piece.
- Bake in a slow oven at 275° to 300° F for 20 to 35 minutes until medium brown.
- Cool the cookies on a rack.
- Store tightly covered; they may also be frozen.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and adding a pinch of salt. If you prefer a lighter texture, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cake flour. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming. If you're short on time, you can skip chilling the dough before rolling it out, but it may be slightly harder to work with. This recipe pairs beautifully with Sea Foam Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful shortbread cookies with a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting treat. They also make a great addition to dessert platters alongside slices of Fruit Magic Cobbler Pie or Old Fashioned Mocha Shake. For an extra touch, dust them with powdered sugar before serving or pair them with fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5-10 minutes to restore their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Mables' Shortbread contains roughly 1635 calories, with 11g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 114g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (30% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use granulated sugar instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar for brown sugar, but it will alter the flavor and texture slightly. Brown sugar adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor, so if you use granulated sugar, consider adding a tablespoon of molasses for a similar effect.
What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough is too crumbly, it may be due to using too much flour. Try adding a tablespoon of softened butter or a few drops of water to help bind it together. Mix gently until the dough holds together without becoming sticky.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To make these shortbread cookies more festive, you can add seasonal spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. Additionally, consider using colored sprinkles or edible glitter on top before baking for a fun, celebratory touch.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).