Short Cookies

Prep: 240 min Cook: 20 min Cuisine: American

Delicate short cookies with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture, customizable with nuts. Perfect for tea, holidays, or as a sweet, simple treat for any occasion.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb butter
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup cornstarch

Instructions

  1. Mix butter, flour, powdered sugar, and cornstarch thoroughly with your hands.
  2. Divide the dough into two equal parts.
  3. Wrap each part in foil and chill overnight.
  4. Slice the dough or roll into balls and flatten them.
  5. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 18 to 20 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, ensure the butter is soft but not melted when mixing with the dry ingredients, as this helps achieve a tender texture. You can substitute half of the cornstarch with almond flour for a nutty flavor. If you prefer a sweeter cookie, consider adding an extra 1/4 cup of powdered sugar. These cookies are similar to those found in American recipes, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.

Serving Suggestions

These short cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. For an extra treat, try serving them alongside Pam'S Orange Bread for a delightful brunch spread. They can also be enjoyed with a scoop of ice cream for a quick dessert, or crumbled over yogurt for a light snack.

Storage & Reheating

Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Short Cookies contains roughly 1643 calories, with 12g protein, 256g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (33% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

1643 kcal 82% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 12g 24% DV
Total Fat 61.2g 78% DV
Carbs 255.9g 93% DV
Fiber 4.1g 15% DV
Sugar 59g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 14.3mg 1% DV
Potassium 126.1mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 180mg 60% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Calcium 20mg 2% DV
Iron 5.9mg 33% DV
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?

Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter; however, it may alter the flavor and texture slightly. Choose a high-quality margarine for the best results. Keep in mind that the cookies may spread more due to the lower fat content in margarine.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough becomes too sticky to handle, try chilling it for an additional 30 minutes. This will firm up the butter and make it easier to shape. Alternatively, you can sprinkle a little extra flour on your work surface when rolling or slicing.

Can I add flavors to the dough?

Absolutely! You can incorporate vanilla extract, almond extract, or citrus zest to enhance the flavor of your cookies. Start with 1 teaspoon of extract or a tablespoon of zest, and adjust to your preference for a more personalized touch.

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).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →