3-INGREDIENT BUTTERY SHORTBREAD COOKIES

Indulge in the simplicity and decadence of Buttery Shortbread Cookies with this effortless 3-ingredient recipe. These delightful treats, adorned with optional sprinkles, embody the perfect blend of buttery goodness and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Let's embark on a journey to create these heavenly cookies that are sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cold, cut-up salted butter
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided
• Optional: Your favorite sprinkles

Instructions:

1. Preparing for Baking:

• Preheat the oven to 325°F and position the rack in the lower middle place.
• Line baking sheets with silicone mats or parchment paper and set aside.

2. Mixing the Dough:

• In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine brown sugar and cold, cut-up butter.
• Mix on medium-high speed with the paddle attachment until the mixture becomes fluffy and light.
• Gradually add 3 1/2 cups of flour and mix on medium-low speed until well combined.

3. Kneading the Dough:

• Sprinkle 1/2 cup of flour on a large board to prevent sticking.
• Transfer the dough to the board using a rubber spatula.
• Knead the dough by hand for about five minutes, incorporating the last 1/2 cup of flour only as needed until the dough is soft, smooth, and non-sticky.
• If desired, mix in your favorite sprinkles during this step.

4. Chilling the Dough:

• Place the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, allowing it to firm up for easier rolling and cutting.

5. Rolling and Cutting:

• Roll out one-third of the dough to approximately 1/2 inch thick on a lightly floured board.
• Cut the dough into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or form strips or triangles.
• Space each cookie 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
• If not using sprinkles, create designs on the cookies using a fork.

6. Baking:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
• Adjust baking time for smaller or larger shapes.

7. Cooling and Serving:

• Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
• When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies maintain their freshness for an extended period.

8. Enjoy the Delight:

• Embrace the joy of savoring these buttery shortbread cookies, perfect for any occasion or as a delightful treat with your favorite beverage.

With just three simple ingredients, you can create Buttery Shortbread Cookies that are bound to captivate your taste buds. Whether enjoyed on their own or shared with loved ones, these cookies are a testament to the beauty of simplicity in baking. Have fun creating and savoring these delightful treats!