Grandmama'S Shortbread Cookies

Prep: 20 min Cook: 25 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Grandmama's Shortbread Cookies offer a rich, buttery flavor with a tender, crumbly texture, perfect for classic cookie lovers and those seeking nostalgic treats.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. butter
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup chopped nuts
  • 5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Cream the butter and sugar together until well combined.
  2. Gradually add 2 cups of flour at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  3. Make the dough into balls about the size of a tennis ball.
  4. Press each ball out to about 1/2-inch thick on a baking sheet.
  5. Cut each sheet into 6 wedges like a pie.
  6. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 25 minutes, ensuring they do not brown.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or replace them with an equal amount of additional flour. Make sure to use cold butter for a flaky texture, and keep an eye on them while baking to avoid browning, as these cookies should be light in color.

Serving Suggestions

These shortbread cookies are delightful on their own or served alongside a cup of tea or coffee. For a special treat, try pairing them with Grandma Drake'S Ice Cream for a delicious dessert experience. They also make great gifts when packaged in decorative boxes, perfect for holidays or special occasions.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, place the cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes, ensuring they remain soft and do not become overly crispy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Grandmama'S Shortbread Cookies contains roughly 623 calories, with 3g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 58g fat.

623 kcal 31% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.9g 6% DV
Total Fat 58.2g 75% DV
Carbs 22.3g 8% DV
Fiber 1g 3% DV
Sugar 0.1g

Electrolytes

Sodium 1.3mg
Potassium 116.1mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 165mg 55% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.3mcg
Vitamin C 3.6mg 4% DV
Calcium 9.5mg 1% DV
Iron 1.1mg 6% DV
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

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 margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be used, it may alter the texture and flavor of the cookies. Butter provides a rich taste and a crumbly texture that are characteristic of traditional shortbread. If you choose margarine, opt for a high-fat variety for the best results.

How can I make my cookies more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor of your shortbread by adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg. A pinch of sea salt can also elevate the sweetness. If you like, incorporate citrus zest for a refreshing twist, or try swapping out some flour for cocoa powder for a chocolatey version.

What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?

If your shortbread dough is too crumbly, it might be due to the flour measurement being a bit off or the butter being too cold. Try adding a teaspoon of cold water or milk to help bind the dough together. Knead it gently until it comes together but avoid overworking it to maintain the desired texture.

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).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →