Shortbread is always a hit, and with these tips and tricks, you’ll be making the best shortbread ever.
From choosing the right ingredients to getting the perfect texture, we’ve got you covered.
So roll up your sleeves and get ready to bake some delicious shortbread!
What Is Shortbread?
Shortbread is a type of biscuit that is made from flour, sugar, butter, and sometimes salt. The dough is rolled out and usually cut into shapes before baking. Shortbread is often enjoyed as a dessert or snack.
Shortbread originated in Scotland, but its popularity has spread throughout the world.
Tips and Tricks For Perfect Shortbread
- Use Butter Instead Of Margarine
- Avoid Overmixing The Dough
- Chill The Dough
- Use A Rolling Pin To Roll Out The Dough For A Neater Finish
- Grease The Baking Tin
- Fork The Dough Before Baking
- Only Bake Shortbread For As Long As It Says In The Recipe
- How Should I Store My Shortbread?
- How Long Does Homemade Shortbread Last?
- How Can I Make My Shortbread Crunchy?
Use Butter Instead Of Margarine
Butter is best used for making shortbread because it gives the biscuits a richer flavour and a more crumbly texture.
Use Softened Room Temperature Butter
Cut the butter into small pieces and let it soften at room temperature for approximately 1 hour.
Cut your butter into thin slices to speed up the process if you’re short on time. Do not use melted butter because it will make the dough oily.
Avoid Overmixing The Dough
Overmixing the dough can cause it to become tough, so mix it briefly and stop as soon as the ingredients are combined.
It is okay if there are some lumps in the dough because they will disappear when you roll out the dough.
Chill The Dough
Letting the dough chill in the refrigerator for around an hour will help it become more firm before rolling it out.
If you’re short on time, you can place the dough in the freezer for about 15 minutes instead of chilling it in the refrigerator.
Use A Rolling Pin To Roll Out The Dough For A Neater Finish
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When rolling out the dough, use a rolling pin to roll it evenly.
If you’re having trouble rolling out the dough, use a bit of flour on your hands and on the rolling pin to prevent it from sticking to your hands or the surface.
Grease The Baking Tin
Grease the baking tin with a bit of butter before putting in the dough. Don’t use too much butter, though, or the shortbread will turn out greasy.
Fork The Dough Before Baking
Using a fork to prick the dough allows the steam to escape during baking.
This will prevent the shortbread from rising too much and becoming full of bubbles, ruining your perfect biscuits.
Holes in the shortbread will enable the heat to cook the biscuit evenly.
Only Bake Shortbread For As Long As It Says In The Recipe
Shortbread should be baked until it is light golden brown. Overbaking shortbread makes it dry and crispy, so do not go past the recommended baking time.
How Should I Store My Shortbread?
Shortbread should be stored in a sealed container to prevent it from drying out. Leave it to cool down before storing it completely.
How Long Does Homemade Shortbread Last?
Shortbread will last for about 3 to 5 days if stored correctly.
How Can I Make My Shortbread Crunchy?
To make your shortbread crunchier, bake it for longer than the recommended baking time.
You can also try brushing the shortbread with an egg wash before baking it to make it crunchier.
Ready To Make Shortbread? Check out my easy shortbread recipe!