Chocolate Shortbread

Introduction

Chocolate Shortbread is a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treat with a rich chocolate flavor and a hint of salt to balance the sweetness. These cookies are the perfect indulgence for chocolate lovers, with a tender, crumbly texture that makes every bite feel luxurious. Made with simple ingredients, they’re easy to prepare yet elegant enough for special occasions. Whether served with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk, chocolate shortbread cookies are always a hit.

I remember baking these on a rainy afternoon, filling the house with the warm aroma of chocolate. As they cooled on the rack, I couldn’t resist sampling one, and it was everything I hoped for—delicate, rich, and completely satisfying. What makes these cookies even better is how customizable they are. You can dip them in melted chocolate for an extra layer of indulgence or sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top for a gourmet touch.

The dough comes together quickly and bakes into perfection in minutes, making it a go-to recipe for both last-minute treats and planned celebrations. These chocolate shortbread cookies are proof that sometimes the simplest things are the most delightful.

Perfect for:

• Holiday cookie trays
• Afternoon tea
• Chocolate cravings
• Gift-giving
• Casual snacking

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Shortbread

Here’s why Chocolate Shortbread will become your go-to cookie recipe:

• Buttery and Tender: The high butter content ensures these cookies have a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Rich Chocolate Flavor: Made with high-quality cocoa powder, the cookies have an intense chocolate taste without being overly sweet.
• Simple and Elegant: Only a handful of ingredients are needed to create these classy cookies.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: The dough can be made in advance and stored, making it easy to bake fresh cookies anytime.
• Customizable: Add-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of flaky salt take these cookies to the next level.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (includes chilling time)
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories per serving: Approximately 120-140 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 2g, Carbs: 14g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Chocolate Shortbread:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-process recommended)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional for extra tenderness)
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Butter: The star of shortbread, butter ensures a tender and rich cookie. Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor.
• Cocoa Powder: Dutch-process cocoa powder gives a deep, chocolatey flavor, while natural cocoa powder adds a slightly more intense, bittersweet note.
• Cornstarch: This optional ingredient enhances the tenderness of the cookies, giving them a delicate, crumbly texture.
• Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the chocolate flavor without overpowering it.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Chocolate Shortbread:

Prepare the Dough

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and cornstarch (if using).
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until a dough forms. If adding chocolate chips or chopped chocolate, fold them in at this stage.
5. Shape the Dough: Divide the dough into two portions. Roll each portion into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.

Shape and Bake the Cookies

6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Slice the Dough: Using a sharp knife, slice the chilled dough into ¼-inch thick rounds. Place the cookies about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
8. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set. The centers will still be soft but will firm up as they cool.
9. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Chocolate Shortbread

Chocolate Shortbread is delicious on its own or paired with other treats:

• With Coffee or Tea: Serve these cookies with a warm beverage for a cozy treat.
• As Part of a Dessert Spread: Include them in a dessert platter with fresh fruit, nuts, and other cookies.
• With Ice Cream: Pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• With Fresh Fruit – Serve alongside fresh berries or sliced fruit to add a fresh contrast to the richness of the shortbread.
• With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar: For a festive touch, dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving.
• Crumbled on Parfaits – Crumble the shortbread over yogurt or whipped cream in a parfait.
• On a Dessert Platter – Include them as part of an assorted dessert platter with other cookies, candies, or small cakes.
• With Nuts or Caramel – Top the shortbread with chopped nuts (like almonds or hazelnuts) or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
• Dipped in Chocolate – Half-dip the shortbread in melted chocolate for an extra layer of indulgence.
• As a Crust for Pies – Crumble the shortbread and press it into the base of a pie dish for a chocolate shortbread crust.

Additional Tips for Chocolate Shortbread

Follow these tips for the best Chocolate Shortbread:

• Use Room-Temperature Butter: This helps the dough come together smoothly and evenly.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling is crucial for shaping the dough and preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
• Don’t Overbake: The cookies should still be soft in the center when removed from the oven. They’ll firm up as they cool.
• Slice the Dough Cleanly: Use a sharp knife for clean edges when slicing the chilled dough.
• Add a Sprinkle of Salt: A pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie before baking enhances the chocolate flavor.

Recipe Variations for Chocolate Shortbread

Here are 10 variations you can try for Chocolate Shortbread:

1. Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread: Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed nuts or sprinkles.
2. Espresso Chocolate Shortbread: Add 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder for a mocha flavor.
3. Orange Chocolate Shortbread: Add 1 tablespoon of orange zest for a citrusy twist.
4. Mint Chocolate Shortbread: Mix in ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract for a holiday-inspired flavor.
5. Almond Chocolate Shortbread: Add ½ cup of finely chopped almonds for a nutty crunch.
6. Sea Salt Chocolate Shortbread: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on each cookie before baking.
7. Hazelnut Chocolate Shortbread: Fold in chopped hazelnuts and a touch of hazelnut extract.
8. Double Chocolate Shortbread: Add ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for extra chocolatey goodness.
9. Coconut Chocolate Shortbread: Mix in ½ cup of shredded coconut.
10. Gluten-Free Chocolate Shortbread: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make a gluten-free version.

Freezing and Storage for Chocolate Shortbread

• Freezing: Freeze the dough logs for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, slice the frozen dough and bake as directed, adding 1-2 extra minutes of baking time.
• Storage: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Special Equipment for Chocolate Shortbread

Here’s some special equipment that makes preparing Chocolate Shortbread easier:

• Electric Mixer: For creaming the butter and sugar.
• Mixing Bowls: Use various sizes for mixing ingredients.
• Plastic Wrap: To wrap and chill the dough.
• Sharp Knife: For slicing the chilled dough cleanly.
• Baking Sheets: Use parchment-lined sheets for easy cookie removal.
• Wire Rack: For cooling the cookies evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions for Chocolate Shortbread

1. Can I use salted butter?
   Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to ⅛ teaspoon.
2. Can I freeze the dough?
   Absolutely! The dough can be frozen for up to 3 months.
3. Can I use natural cocoa powder instead of Dutch-process?
   Yes, but the flavor will be slightly more intense and less mellow.
4. How do I know when the cookies are done?
   The edges will be set, but the centers should still look soft. They’ll firm up as they cool.
5. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
   Yes, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

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Conclusion

Chocolate Shortbread is the ultimate blend of rich chocolate and buttery goodness, making it a decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With each bite, you’ll enjoy the perfect balance of melt-in-your-mouth texture and deep cocoa flavor. Whether you’re baking them for special events, giving them as thoughtful gifts, or simply enjoying them with a hot drink, these cookies never fail to impress.

This recipe is easy to make and perfect for satisfying those chocolate cravings while bringing a touch of homemade charm to your treats. You’ll understand why this simple yet indulgent cookie has remained a timeless favorite.

Can’t wait to see how your Chocolate Shortbread turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I’m excited to see your delicious creations! Happy baking!