There’s something quintessentially British about a warm, crumbly biscuit served alongside a steaming cup of tea. And when it comes to biscuits that fit this bill perfectly, few can rival the humble shortbread. With its buttery flavor and crumbly texture, shortbread is the ultimate comfort food – and with so many variations out there, you’re sure to find one (or five) to suit your taste.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 different shortbread recipes that are perfect for tea time. From classic Scottish shortbread to lemon-glazed cookies and chocolate-dipped fingers, we’ve got a little something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and indulgent or savory and sophisticated, these buttery biscuits are sure to hit the spot.
Classic Scottish Shortbread
Shortbread has been a staple of Scottish baking for centuries, and this classic recipe is a timeless favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and no fuss, you can create a buttery, crumbly treat that’s perfect for snacking or serving with tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
4. Press the dough into a disk shape, about 1/2 inch thick.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., fingers or squares).
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each shortbread.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Glazed Shortbread Cookies
Brighten up your day with these buttery shortbread cookies infused with the warmth of lemon zest and a sweet glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for glaze)
– Lemon zest for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. Add softened butter; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Allow cookies to cool completely on wire rack.
7. Whisk together granulated sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl.
8. Drizzle glaze over cooled cookies.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Shortbread Fingers
These buttery shortbread fingers are elevated by a decadent chocolate coating, making them perfect for snacking or gifting. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these indulgent treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into long strips, approximately 1 inch wide.
4. Place strips on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
7. Dip cooled shortbread fingers into melted chocolate and place on parchment paper to set.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Earl Grey Tea Infused Shortbread
Elevate your shortbread game with a hint of sophistication by infusing Earl Grey tea into these buttery treats. The subtle bergamot flavor adds a delightful twist to the classic shortbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons Earl Grey tea leaves (or 2 teaspoons loose-leaf tea)
– Optional: pinch of vanilla powder or a few drops of bergamot extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough forms.
4. Steep Earl Grey tea leaves in 2 tablespoons of boiling water for 5 minutes. Strain and let cool to room temperature.
5. Fold cooled tea mixture into the shortbread dough until well combined.
6. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Almond Flour Shortbread
Experience the rich flavor of shortbread with a twist – using almond flour instead of traditional wheat flour.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add the softened butter and granulated sugar to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
5. Roll the dough into a ball and flatten slightly into a disk shape. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., fingers, squares).
6. Place shortbread on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each piece.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Maple Pecan Shortbread Squares
Maple Pecan Shortbread Squares: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe
These buttery shortbread squares get a sweet and nutty boost from the addition of pure Canadian maple syrup and crunchy pecans. Perfect for a snack or dessert, these bite-sized treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons pure Canadian maple syrup
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Stir in maple syrup, pecans, and salt.
4. Press dough evenly into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lavender Honey Shortbread
Elevate your baking game with this delightful shortbread infused with the soothing essence of lavender and the sweetness of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons dried lavender buds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add lavender buds and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in honey until fully incorporated.
4. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place shortbread on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Brown Butter Shortbread with Sea Salt
Elevate your shortbread game with the addition of brown butter and flaky sea salt. This simple recipe yields a buttery, crumbly cookie that’s perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 tablespoon browned butter (see note)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the browned butter and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Note: To brown butter, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes). Let cool before using in recipe.
Orange Zest Shortbread Rounds
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your shortbread game with these easy-to-make orange zest rounds. Perfect for a quick snack or as a sweet treat to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 medium orange)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in salt, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
5. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead a few times until it comes together.
6. Roll out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into rounds or shapes of your choice.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each round.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Rosemary and Thyme Savory Shortbread
A twist on the classic shortbread recipe, this savory version combines the earthy flavors of rosemary and thyme for a delicious accompaniment to soups, salads, or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 teaspoons dried rosemary leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add rosemary, thyme, and salt; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each shortbread.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Shortbread
Elevate your shortbread game with the bright, grassy flavor of matcha green tea. These buttery treats are perfect for a Japanese-inspired snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon matcha powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together butter, confectioners’ sugar, matcha powder, and salt until smooth.
3. Gradually add the flour, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Let cool on wire rack for 5 minutes before transferring to a paper towel-lined plate.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Raspberry Jam Thumbprint Shortbread
These buttery shortbread cookies are elevated by a burst of sweet-tart raspberry jam, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup raspberry jam
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter; mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
4. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
5. Using your thumb or a spoon, create a small indentation in the center of each cookie. Fill with raspberry jam.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden around edges. Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Coconut Lime Shortbread Cookies
Brighten up your day with these tropical shortbread cookies infused with the flavors of coconut and lime!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Stir in shredded coconut, lime juice, salt, and baking powder.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Dark Chocolate Chunk Shortbread
A rich and buttery shortbread infused with the deep flavors of dark chocolate, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semisweet dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa solids)
– Optional: confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add flour and salt; mix until just combined.
4. Stir in dark chocolate chips.
5. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times until it comes together.
6. Roll out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, rectangles).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each piece.
8. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Ginger Spiced Shortbread
This sweet and spicy shortbread combines the warmth of ginger with the buttery richness of traditional shortbread, perfect for a delightful treat or gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the ground ginger and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., rectangles or circles).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pistachio and Rosewater Shortbread
Experience the exotic flavor combination of pistachios and rosewater in this unique shortbread recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup finely ground pistachios
– 1 tablespoon rosewater
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together butter, sugar, and pistachios until well combined.
3. Add rosewater and mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add flour and salt, stirring until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, rectangles, or use a cookie cutter).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each shortbread.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Vanilla Bean Shortbread Hearts
Shortbread hearts are a classic treat that’s perfect for special occasions or as a sweet surprise for loved ones. These buttery shortbread cookies infused with the warmth of vanilla bean are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or 1/4 teaspoon grated vanilla bean
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add salt, vanilla extract, and vanilla bean paste or grated vanilla bean; mix until combined.
4. Gradually add flour; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into heart shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chai Spiced Shortbread Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the comforting warmth of chai spices with the buttery richness of shortbread, perfect for a cozy afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons loose-leaf black tea leaves or 1 teaspoon chai spice blend
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add tea leaves or chai spice blend; mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, hearts).
5. Place shapes on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Allow shortbread bites to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the buttery goodness of shortbread with these 18 mouthwatering recipes perfect for tea time. From classic Scottish shortbread to innovative flavor combinations like lemon glazed and chocolate dipped, there’s something for everyone. Treat yourself or gift a loved one with these delicious treats that are sure to impress.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
