Ultimate Pan Shortbread Delights
Indulge in these buttery, melt-in-your-mouth Pan Shortbread Delights—an exquisite twist on a classic recipe that will surely impress at any gathering. Combining a rich buttery flavor with a delicate crumb, these shortbread squares are perfect for snacking, gifting, or serving at your next tea party. The easy preparation allows anyone to whip up a batch quickly, while the optional chocolate dip and sprinkles add a luxurious finish that elevates them to bakery-quality treats. With my tried and true method, you'll understand why this recipe has become a favorite in my home.
48
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter
2 cups (softened, no substitutes)
White Sugar
1 cup (for mixing)
Cornstarch
2 teaspoons (sifted)
All-Purpose Flour
4 cups (sifted)
White Sugar
1/4 cup (for sprinkling on top (or to taste))
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a medium-sized cookie sheet with sides or line it with parchment paper.
2
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
3
Gradually add 1 cup of white sugar to the butter, continuing to beat until the mixture is well combined and fluffy again.
4
In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and cornstarch to ensure that they are thoroughly combined and free of lumps.
5
Slowly add the flour mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until completely incorporated before adding the next cup. Continue until all the flour is mixed in, and be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently.
6
Once fully combined, gently dump the dough onto the prepared cookie sheet, spreading it out evenly using a spatula or rolling pin. Aim for even thickness across the sheet to ensure uniform baking.
7
Sprinkle the top with 1/4 cup of white sugar (for an optional touch of sparkle, colored sugar can be used). Sprinkle to taste.
8
Place in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the edges turn light brown. Keep a close watch as oven temperatures may vary; add a minute or two as necessary.
9
Once done, remove from the oven and immediately cut the shortbread into squares or rectangles while still warm. Allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet.
10
For an extra indulgent treat, melt some chocolate and dip one end of each shortbread square, then roll the chocolate end in colorful sprinkles before letting it set on wax paper.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Ultimate Pan Shortbread Delights?
They are a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread square that offers a twist on the classic recipe, featuring a delicate crumb and optional chocolate finish.
How many servings does this shortbread recipe produce?
This recipe yields approximately 48 servings.
What is the recommended oven temperature for baking?
The oven should be preheated to 325°F (163°C).
Can I use a substitute for butter in this recipe?
No, it is recommended to use 2 cups of softened butter with no substitutes for the best flavor and texture.
Why is cornstarch included in the ingredients?
Cornstarch is sifted with the flour to help create a delicate crumb and a smooth texture in the shortbread.
How long should I beat the butter?
You should beat the softened butter with an electric mixer for about 3-5 minutes until it is light and fluffy.
What type of flour is required for this recipe?
This recipe requires 4 cups of sifted all-purpose flour.
How do I prepare the baking sheet?
Grease a medium-sized cookie sheet with sides or line it with parchment paper.
When should I add the white sugar to the butter?
Gradually add 1 cup of white sugar to the butter after it has been beaten until fluffy, then continue beating until well combined.
Is it necessary to sift the dry ingredients?
Yes, sifting the all-purpose flour and cornstarch together ensures they are thoroughly combined and free of lumps.
How should I add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients?
Slowly add the flour mixture one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until completely incorporated before adding the next cup.
What should I do if the dough sticks to the sides of the bowl?
Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently during the mixing process to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
How do I ensure the shortbread bakes uniformly?
Spread the dough evenly across the prepared cookie sheet using a spatula or rolling pin to achieve a uniform thickness.
Can I use colored sugar for the topping?
Yes, while the recipe calls for 1/4 cup of white sugar, colored sugar can be used for an optional touch of sparkle.
How long do the shortbread delights bake?
Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the edges turn a light brown color.
When is the best time to cut the shortbread into squares?
Remove the pan from the oven and immediately cut the shortbread into squares or rectangles while it is still warm.
Where should the shortbread cool?
Allow the cut shortbread to cool completely on the baking sheet before moving it.
How can I make these treats more indulgent?
You can melt chocolate and dip one end of each square, then roll the chocolate end in colorful sprinkles.
What kind of sugar is used for the dough?
One cup of white sugar is used for mixing into the dough.
What is the recipe category for this dish?
This recipe is categorized as a Bar Cookie.
Can these be served at a tea party?
Yes, their delicate crumb and rich flavor make them perfect for serving at tea parties or social gatherings.
How many ingredients are required for the basic recipe?
There are 5 total ingredients: butter, white sugar (for dough), cornstarch, all-purpose flour, and additional white sugar (for topping).
What should I do after dipping the squares in chocolate?
After dipping and adding sprinkles, let the chocolate set on wax paper.
Does the recipe require a specific mixing speed?
The recipe recommends beating the butter on a high speed until fluffy, but mixing the flour in on a low speed.
What texture should I expect from these shortbread treats?
Expect a rich buttery flavor with a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
Can I make these for holiday gifts?
Yes, they are highly recommended for gifting because they look professional and are easy to prepare.
What should I look for to know the baking is complete?
The edges should turn a light brown; keep a close watch as oven temperatures can vary.
What is the preparation for the cornstarch?
The cornstarch should be sifted along with the flour before being added to the dough.
Is a rolling pin necessary?
A rolling pin is optional; you can also use a spatula to spread the dough evenly on the sheet.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Associated tags include shortbread, cookies, desserts, buttery, easy recipes, baking, chocolate dip, snacks, and party treats.