Whipped Shortbread Cookies

These Whipped Shortbread Cookies are melt-in-your-mouth delicious, with a buttery, crumbly texture and a light, airy bite. They’re incredibly easy to make and perfect for the holidays, special occasions, or simply when you’re craving a simple, sweet treat!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Sprinkles, chocolate chips, or cherries for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them. Set aside.
2. Make the Cookie Dough:
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until it’s light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This is key to getting the delicate, whipped texture.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue beating until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
   • Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
3. Shape the Cookies:
   • Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, scoop small amounts of dough and roll them into balls. You can also use a piping bag with a star tip to pipe out the dough into swirls or rosettes for a more decorative look.
   • Place the cookie dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten them slightly with a fork, your fingers, or the bottom of a glass.
4. Optional Garnishes:
   • If desired, you can top each cookie with sprinkles, a piece of maraschino cherry, or a few chocolate chips for extra flair before baking.
5. Bake:
   • Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden brown. Be careful not to overbake, as the cookies should remain pale and delicate.
   • Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Once the cookies are fully cooled, serve and enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of these Whipped Shortbread Cookies!

Tips for Success:

• Butter: Make sure your butter is softened but not melted for the best texture in these cookies. Softened butter will help create a light, airy dough.
• Chill the Dough: If you’re having trouble shaping the dough, or if you want to make the dough ahead of time, you can chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before shaping and baking.
• Decorating: Feel free to decorate these cookies for the holidays with colored sprinkles, drizzled chocolate, or even a dusting of powdered sugar.

These Whipped Shortbread Cookies are perfect for gifting, holiday trays, or simply treating yourself to a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth snack!