Scotch Bread Cookies

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Cuisine: Scottish

Delightful Scotch Bread Cookies offer a buttery, sweet treat with crisp edges, perfect for tea time or sharing with friends and family who enjoy classic baked goods.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb butter
  • 1 cup confectioners sugar
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Cream the butter and confectioners sugar until smooth and well combined.
  2. Add sifted all-purpose flour gradually and mix until a dough forms.
  3. Roll the dough very thin on a floured surface.
  4. Cut into desired shapes and bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 20 minutes until lightly golden.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, ensure the butter is at room temperature before creaming with the sugar. Consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor. If you prefer a sweeter cookie, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for added depth. Remember to keep the dough chilled if it becomes too soft to roll out.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are delightful on their own but can also be paired with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack. Try serving them alongside Cheesy Irish Potatoes for a unique flavor combination. For a festive touch, dust them with additional confectioners' sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate before serving.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Scotch Bread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator where they can last for about two weeks. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Scotch Bread Cookies contains roughly 1886 calories, with 12g protein, 326g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (30% of the Daily Value) and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

1886 kcal 94% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11.7g 23% DV
Total Fat 61.1g 78% DV
Carbs 326g 100% DV
Fiber 3.1g 11% DV
Sugar 235.1g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 7.1mg
Potassium 126.1mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 180mg 60% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Calcium 19.4mg 1% DV
Iron 5.4mg 30% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
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 for this recipe?

While margarine can be used as a substitute, it may alter the texture and flavor of the cookies. Butter provides a richness that margarine often lacks. If you choose to use margarine, look for a variety with a high-fat content to better mimic the properties of butter.

How can I make these cookies more festive for the holidays?

To make these Scotch Bread Cookies more festive, consider adding festive spices like nutmeg or ginger to the dough. You can also incorporate dried fruits or chopped nuts for added texture. Decorating them with icing or colored sprinkles can also enhance their holiday appeal.

What can I do if my dough is too crumbly?

If your dough is too crumbly, try adding a small amount of milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Be careful not to over-add; just enough to make it pliable. Alternatively, ensure your butter is adequately softened, as cold butter can lead to a dry dough.

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).

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