Old Fashioned Shortbread Cookies
Old Fashioned Shortbread Cookies are buttery, tender treats with a hint of vanilla and raspberry jam, perfect for tea time or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thoroughly cream the shortening and sugars.
- Add egg yolks, milk, and vanilla; beat well.
- Sift together dry ingredients; add to creamed mixture.
- Chill dough for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsalted butter. Ensure your shortening is at room temperature for better creaming. If you want a touch of zest, add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest. Remember to chill the dough for at least an hour; this helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Serving Suggestions
These shortbread cookies are delightful on their own, but they pair beautifully with a dollop of commercial red raspberry preserves or jam for a fruity twist. Serve them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat, or include them on a dessert platter with other sweet delights like Raisin Cream Cheese Pound Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store the shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To reheat, simply warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5-10 minutes, which will refresh their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Shortbread Cookies contains roughly 977 calories, with 17g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (44% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2446mg per serving (106% of the Daily Value).
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 shortening?
Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for shortening; however, it may alter the texture slightly. For best results, use a stick margarine that has a similar fat content to shortening.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make these shortbread cookies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains a binding agent, such as xanthan gum, to maintain the cookie's structure.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for an extra layer of flavor. Chopped nuts or chocolate chips can also be incorporated for a delightful variation.
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).