Saint Andrew'S Night Shortbread
A buttery, crumbly shortbread with a hint of sweetness, perfect for festive occasions or tea time. Its simple ingredients create a rich, melt-in-your-mouth treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the sugar and butter at room temperature with hands until smooth.
- Add flour, kneading and blend until dough comes away from sides of bowl.
- Press out with fingertips on ungreased, floured cookie sheet.
- Prick with fork.
- Bake in preheated 350° oven about 35 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool, but cut in squares while still hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using European-style butter, which has a higher fat content. If you're out of butter, you can substitute half the amount with coconut oil for a slight twist. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing, and avoid over-kneading to keep the shortbread tender. Dust the cookie sheet lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful shortbread squares with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with Nina'S Rice Pudding for a festive dessert spread. For added flair, dust them with powdered sugar before serving or drizzle with Icing For Pies for a touch of sweetness.
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 squares in a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Saint Andrew'S Night Shortbread contains roughly 1292 calories, with 7g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 114g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 4g 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 add flavors like vanilla or almond extract to the shortbread?
Absolutely! Adding 1 teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract can enhance the flavor of your shortbread. Mix it in with the butter and sugar during the creaming process for an even distribution of flavor.
What can I do if my dough is too dry?
If your dough feels too dry and crumbly, try adding a teaspoon of cold water or milk, one at a time, until the dough comes together. Be careful not to add too much, as you want to maintain the shortbread's crumbly texture.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but keep in mind that the texture may be a bit denser. It’s best to use a mix of both flours for a lighter result while still enjoying the nutritional benefits of whole grains.
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).