Rosemary Shortbread Cookies Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of rosemary and shortbread. The herb’s earthy, pine-like aroma perfectly complements the buttery, crumbly texture of classic shortbread. This delightful twist on a traditional favorite not only tastes divine but also brings a touch of sophistication to your cookie platter.

Rosemary shortbread has its roots in Scottish baking traditions, where simple ingredients create rich, flavorful treats. By infusing fresh rosemary into the dough, you get a unique, savory-sweet flavor profile that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a fancy tea party or just craving a special snack, rosemary shortbread is sure to impress.

Ready to elevate your baking game? Let’s dive into the world of rosemary shortbread, where each bite offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

Ingredients

For this delightful rosemary shortbread, gather the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon butter, softened
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Ensure that the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. Finely chop the fresh rosemary to evenly distribute its flavor throughout the shortbread. These simple yet essential ingredients will combine to create a savory-sweet treat that is both fragrant and flavorful.

Tools and Equipment

To ensure the perfect rosemary shortbread, having the right tools and equipment is essential. Here’s what you will need:

• Mixing Bowls
• Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Silicone Spatula
• Fine Mesh Sieve
• Sharp Knife or Dough Cutter
• Plastic Wrap or Parchment Paper
• Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat
• Cooling Rack

Having these tools and equipment prepared before you start not only makes the baking process smoother but also ensures the results are deliciously

Directions

Prep

Before you begin, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature, as this helps them blend smoothly, resulting in a more uniform dough. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature when your cookies are ready to bake. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking, making cleanup easier.

Start the Dough

In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to cream together 1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon of softened butter and 1/2 cup of confectioners’ sugar. Begin mixing on low speed to prevent the sugar from flying out of the bowl, then increase to medium speed. Cream the mixture until it is smooth and has a pale color, indicating that the sugar is well incorporated and the mixture is light and fluffy.

Add Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, carefully whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh rosemary, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Ensure the rosemary is finely chopped so it evenly distributes its aroma and flavor throughout the dough. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, mixing on low speed to avoid overmixing. The dough should come together in a crumbly yet cohesive form, allowing you to shape it easily.

Shape and Chill the Dough

Transfer the crumbly dough onto a lightly floured surface. Use your hands to form it into a cohesive 8-inch log. The dough should compact easily without falling apart. Wrap the log securely in plastic wrap to prevent any air from drying it out, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight. Chilling solidifies the butter and allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the cookie’s texture and taste.

Slice the Cookies

Once chilled, place the cookie dough log on a flat surface. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1/2-inch thick rounds. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts without crushing the dough. Arrange the slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving at least 2 inches between them to accommodate spreading during baking.

Bake

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 11 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the edges to turn a light golden brown while the centers remain somewhat pale. This ensures a tender, buttery texture. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 1 minute to firm up before transferring them to a wire cooling rack.

How to Store Rosemary Shortbread Cookies

Once your rosemary shortbread cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container to preserve their freshness and delicate texture. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid climate, consider adding a sheet of parchment paper between layers of cookies to absorb excess moisture.

Can You Freeze Rosemary Shortbread Cookies?

Absolutely, freezing is an excellent way to extend the shelf life of rosemary shortbread cookies. To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a resealable plastic freezer bag or an airtight container, with parchment paper between layers if necessary. They will keep for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, remove the desired amount and thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For a freshly baked feel, warm them briefly in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-10 minutes.

Tips for Perfect Rosemary Shortbread

Why Do You Chill Rosemary Shortbread Dough?

Chilling the dough is a crucial step in the baking process. It solidifies the butter, ensuring the cookies hold their shape during baking. The chilling time also allows the flavors, especially rosemary’s aromatic oils, to infuse more deeply into the dough, resulting in a richer taste. If you’re short on time, place the dough in the freezer for about 30 minutes, but note that overnight chilling yields the best results.

Best Butter for Rosemary Shortbread Cookies

The quality of butter significantly influences the texture and flavor of shortbread cookies. Using high-fat, unsalted European butter enhances the rich, creamy texture of the cookies, thanks to its lower water content compared to regular butter. This results in a more tender crumb and a deeper buttery flavor. Always ensure your butter is softened to room temperature before mixing; this step ensures it creams smoothly with the sugar, creating a light, airy dough.

Fixing Shortbread Dough That’s Too Soft to Slice

If your dough becomes too soft to slice, it might be due to warm kitchen temperatures or insufficient chilling. Simply return it to the refrigerator for an additional 15-20 minutes to firm up. If time is pressing, a quick 10-minute freeze can make a substantial difference. This extra chilling helps maintain the shape and structure of the cookies, allowing you to achieve clean, smooth slices without crumbling.

Telling When Shortbread Cookies Are Done

Monitoring the bake time is essential for perfect shortbread. As the cookies bake, look for the edges to develop a light golden color, indicating doneness. The centers should remain relatively pale, which ensures a soft, buttery texture. Avoid overbaking as this can result in a dry, crumbly cookie instead of the desired tender, melt-in-your-mouth experience. If you’re unsure, it’s better to err on the side of underbaking slightly, as cookies continue to firm up as they cool.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s a detailed look at the nutritional content for serving sizes of my delightful rosemary shortbread cookies.

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving (2 cookies)
Calories	140
Total Fat	9g
Saturated Fat	5g
Cholesterol	20mg
Sodium	50mg
Total Carbohydrates	14g
Dietary Fiber	0.5g
Sugars	6g
Protein	1g
Vitamin A	6% DV
Calcium	1% DV
Iron	2% DV

These percentages are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. The rosemary shortbread cookies provide an indulgent but balanced mix of fats, sugars, and a hint of dietary fiber. You can enjoy the aromatic and rich flavor without significant guilt.

Conclusion

Rosemary shortbread cookies offer a delightful twist on a classic treat. The combination of fresh rosemary and buttery shortbread creates a unique flavor that’s both rich and aromatic. By paying attention to key ingredients and techniques, you can achieve perfect results every time.

Storing and freezing these cookies ensures they remain fresh and ready for any occasion. With the right tips and tricks, even novice bakers can create these indulgent yet balanced treats. So go ahead and enjoy baking these rosemary shortbread cookies, knowing you’re in for a truly special treat.

Certainly! Let’s add more details to the sections on Directions, How to Store Rosemary Shortbread Cookies, and Tips for Perfect Rosemary Shortbread.

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