M.G.'S Shortbread
Rich, buttery shortbread with a crisp texture and melt-in-the-mouth quality, perfect for teatime or special occasions, appealing to classic dessert lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Let the butter soften to room temperature.
- Cream the softened butter and sugar together.
- Add half of the flour and mix by hand until combined.
- Add the remaining flour and mix until smooth.
- Form the dough into a smooth oblong ball.
- Place the dough in a greased 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Push the dough flat and evenly all over the pan surface.
- Poke numerous holes in the dough with a fork, pushing all the way through to the pan.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 45 minutes or until the edges are just golden brown.
- Cut into pieces while still warm.
- Cool completely and then remove from the pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt. If you prefer a slightly sweeter cookie, you can increase the sugar by a quarter cup. Mixing the dough by hand helps to avoid overworking it, which keeps the shortbread tender. Make sure not to skip poking holes in the dough, as this helps it bake evenly and prevents puffing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve M.G.'S Shortbread with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with Cherry Sherbet for a refreshing dessert combo. For a festive touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate on top or dusting with powdered sugar before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the pieces in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of M.G.'S Shortbread contains roughly 1951 calories, with 26g protein, 197g carbohydrates, and 116g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (64% of the Daily Value), protein (52% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 9g 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 a different type of flour for this recipe?
While all-purpose flour is recommended for the best texture, you can experiment with alternative flours like almond or gluten-free blends. However, results may vary, and adjustments in liquid ingredients might be necessary.
What can I add to the shortbread for extra flavor?
You can incorporate vanilla extract, almond extract, or even lemon zest to enhance the flavor. Adding finely chopped nuts or chocolate chips can also provide a delightful twist to the classic shortbread.
Why do I need to poke holes in the dough?
Poking holes in the dough allows steam to escape while baking, which helps prevent the shortbread from puffing up. This technique ensures that you achieve the desired density and texture of the cookie.
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).