Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why these butterscotch shortbread cookies will become a favorite.
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Only a handful of ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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Slice-and-bake method. Easy to prepare ahead.
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Buttery and tender. The perfect texture combination.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves shortbread.
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Budget-friendly. Butter, flour, and sugar are inexpensive.
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Perfect for holidays, cookie swaps, and gifts.
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Great for leftovers.
Ingredients
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1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 cup cornstarch
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1 cup butter, softened
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1/2 cup powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2/3 cup butterscotch chips, finely chopped
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1/2 cup toffee bits
Ingredient Notes
All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the dough.
Cornstarch: Adds tenderness and helps create a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Salt: Balances the sweetness.
Butter: Use softened butter for the best texture.
Powdered sugar: Adds sweetness without making the cookies grainy.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and flavor.
Butterscotch chips: Adds sweet, caramelized flavor. Chop them finely.
Toffee bits: Adds crunchy texture.
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
Whisk the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt together in a medium bowl. Set aside.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
Cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together in a large bowl until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Add Vanilla
Mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed butter mixture. Stir just until a dough forms.
Step 5: Add Mix-ins
Fold in the finely chopped butterscotch chips and toffee bits until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Shape the Dough
Transfer the dough to a sheet of plastic wrap. Shape it into a compact log approximately 2 1/2 to 3 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, until firm.
Step 7: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 8: Slice and Bake
Remove the plastic wrap and cut the chilled dough into 1/4-inch slices. Arrange the slices approximately 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain pale.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Let the cookies rest on the hot baking sheet for 2 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely.
How to Serve Butterscotch Shortbread Cookies
These tender, buttery cookies are delicious on their own, but a few accompaniments make them even better.
With Coffee: Serve with a cup of coffee or tea.
With Ice Cream: Use as a base for ice cream sandwiches.
With Milk: Classic cookie pairing.
As a Gift: Package in decorative bags or tins.
With Fresh Fruit: Serve with berries.
Variations & Tips
Make Them with Chocolate Chips: Use chocolate chips instead of butterscotch.
Make Them with Pecans: Add chopped pecans.
Make Them with Toffee: Add extra toffee bits.
Make Them with Almond Extract: Use almond extract instead of vanilla.
Make Them with Sprinkles: Add sprinkles for color.
Make Them with Sea Salt: Sprinkle with sea salt before baking.
Make Them Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour.
Make Them Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter.
Make Them with Different Chips: Use white chocolate or dark chocolate chips.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Do not overmix the dough. This keeps the cookies tender.
Chill the dough completely. This prevents spreading.
Rotate the log when slicing. This keeps the rounds even.
Do not overbake. The centers should remain pale.
Let them rest on the pan. This helps them set.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different flour?
Yes. Gluten-free flour can be used.
Can I use a different sugar?
Yes. Granulated sugar can be used.
Can I use a different butter?
Yes. Margarine can be used.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Can I freeze this dough?
Yes. Freeze the log for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Why are my cookies spreading?
The dough was not chilled enough. Chill longer.
Can I add more mix-ins?
Yes. Add up to 1 cup of mix-ins.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any baking sheet works.
Can I make these in a slow cooker?
This recipe is designed for the oven.
The Beauty of Shortbread Cookies
There is something deeply satisfying about a buttery, tender shortbread cookie. It is the kind of treat that makes people happy. These butterscotch shortbread cookies are a celebration of all those things.
Keep flour, cornstarch, and sugar in your pantry. Keep butter in your fridge. Keep butterscotch chips and toffee bits in your cupboard. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Chilling Time: 1–2 hours
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies