🍪 Classic 100-Year-Old Shortbread Cookies Recipe – A Buttery, Nostalgic Treat for Any Occasion

Estimated Calories: Approximately 90–100 calories per cookie (based on 1-inch size)
Best Mealtime: Ideal for midday snacks, afternoon tea, or a light dessert after dinner

Looking for the perfect bite of nostalgia? This century-old shortbread cookie recipe delivers comfort and buttery richness in every crumb. Handed down through generations, these cookies are timeless crowd-pleasers—whether served plain or dressed up with chocolate drizzle, nuts, or citrus zest. Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and melt-in-your-mouth texture make this recipe a must-have for holiday trays, family gatherings, or cozy nights at home.

Let’s celebrate the joy of homemade baking and bring Grandma’s treasured recipe back to life with a delicious twist of modern insight!

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✨ Why You’ll Love These 100-Year-Old Shortbread Cookies

• Time-tested and reliable: Foolproof and passed down through generations

• Minimal ingredients: Pantry staples only—no complicated steps

• Customizable: Easily add chocolate, nuts, or zest for variation

• Quick prep & bake time: Ready in about 30 minutes

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🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Classic Shortbread Base:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for topping)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Optional Flavor Variations:

• Lemon Zest: 1 tablespoon for a bright citrus flavor

• Chocolate Drizzle: Melted white or dark chocolate for topping

• Nuts or Dried Fruit: 1/3 cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or cranberries

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

✅ Step 1: Preheat and Prep

• Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

• In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes with a mixer).

✅ Step 2: Mix the Dough

• Add vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.

• Slowly mix in flour and salt on low speed until dough forms a soft, smooth consistency.

• Fold in optional ingredients (if using) at this stage.

✅ Step 3: Shape the Cookies

• Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheet, 2 inches apart.

• Flatten gently using your fingers or the bottom of a glass to 1/4-inch thickness.

• Sprinkle tops lightly with granulated sugar for a delicate crunch.

✅ Step 4: Bake and Cool

• Bake in preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.

• Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

✅ Step 5: Serve or Store

• Serve warm or at room temperature.

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

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📊 Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

Nutrient	Approximate Value
Calories	90–100 kcal
Fat	6–7g
Carbohydrates	10–11g
Sugars	3–4g
Protein	1g

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⚡ Best Appliance to Save Electricity

For energy-efficient baking, use a countertop convection toaster oven instead of a full-sized oven, especially when baking small batches. These ovens preheat faster, use less power, and circulate heat more efficiently, resulting in quicker baking times and lower energy consumption.

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🩺 Health Considerations: Who Should Enjoy or Avoid These Cookies?

✅ Beneficial For:

• Kids & teens needing quick energy in small portions

• Elderly individuals who appreciate soft-textured treats

• Anyone looking for a nostalgic, portion-controlled indulgence

❌ May Not Be Ideal For:

• People on low-fat or low-sugar diets

• Individuals with diabetes or insulin resistance (due to simple carbs and sugar)

• Those with dairy allergies (can use dairy-free butter alternatives if needed)

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📝 Final Thoughts

These 100-year-old shortbread cookies are more than just baked goods—they’re a connection to generations past, packed with buttery goodness and heartwarming simplicity. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with creative add-ins, these cookies are guaranteed to fill your kitchen with delicious aromas and your heart with sweet memories.

Bake a batch, share them with loved ones, and let this timeless treat become part of your family tradition.

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