Description
These elegant shortbread cookies feature a tender, buttery crumb that perfectly complements a rich semi-sweet chocolate coating. Simple to prepare and infinitely customizable, they are the ideal treat for gifting or enjoying with a hot cup of tea.
Ingredients
- 1 cup high-quality butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or melting wafers
- Optional toppings: sea salt, crushed peppermint, or chopped nuts
Instructions
- Beat the butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a stand mixer until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
- Slowly add the flour and mix just until a dough forms, adding a tablespoon of butter if the texture is too crumbly.
- Roll the dough into a log approximately 2 inches in diameter and 12 inches long on a floured surface.
- Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Unwrap the dough and slice into 1-centimeter thick discs using a sharp knife.
- Place discs on the baking sheets and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until set and light golden on the bottom.
- Cool the cookies completely on a wire rack before proceeding to the dipping stage.
- Melt the semi-sweet chocolate in a double boiler until perfectly smooth.
- Dip each cookie halfway into the warm chocolate, let the excess drip off, and place on parchment.
- Immediately sprinkle with your chosen toppings before the chocolate sets.
Notes
For the cleanest edges, ensure the dough is very cold before slicing with a sharp, non-serrated knife. If your chocolate is too thick for dipping, stir in a half-teaspoon of coconut oil to help it reach a smoother, more fluid consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American