Scottish Shortbread(Makes 12 Wedges)

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: Scottish

Golden, buttery shortbread with a melt-in-the-mouth texture, perfect for teatime or special occasions, appealing to those who love rich, crumbly biscuits.

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Ingredients

  • 6 oz. plain flour
  • 6 oz. butter or margarine at room temperature
  • 3 oz. caster sugar
  • 3 oz. fine semolina

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Line an 8-inch fluted flan tin with a loose base.
  3. Mix plain flour, caster sugar, and fine semolina in a bowl.
  4. Add the butter or margarine and rub in until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
  5. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared flan tin.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until lightly golden.
  7. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before cutting into 12 wedges.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you want a bit of texture, substitute half of the plain flour with ground almonds. Be careful not to overwork the dough; just mix until it comes together. If you like a hint of spice, a pinch of cinnamon can be added for an extra dimension.

Serving Suggestions

Scottish shortbread pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it an ideal afternoon snack. You can serve them alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. For a delightful dessert experience, consider serving them with Layered Cream Cheese And Strawberries.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in a low oven.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Scottish Shortbread(Makes 12 Wedges) contains roughly 170 calories, with 1g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 7g fat.

170 kcal 9% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.5g 3% DV
Total Fat 7.2g 9% DV
Carbs 25g 9% DV
Fiber 0.4g 1% DV
Sugar 14.2g 28% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 0.4mg
Potassium 15.5mg
Cholesterol 21.3mg 7% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Calcium 2.3mg
Iron 0.7mg 4% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
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 make this shortbread gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help mimic the texture of regular flour.

How can I add flavor variations to the shortbread?

You can experiment by adding citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, or incorporating extracts like vanilla or almond. Chopped nuts or dried fruits can also be mixed in for additional flavor and texture.

What can I do if my shortbread is too crumbly?

If your dough seems too crumbly, it might need a bit more moisture. Try adding a teaspoon of cold water or an extra tablespoon of butter to help bind it together without overworking the 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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