Vanilla Rose Shortbread Cookies

Introduction

Vanilla Rose Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the buttery richness of classic shortbread with the subtle floral notes of rose and the comforting warmth of vanilla. These cookies are not only beautiful but also incredibly fragrant, making them perfect for special occasions or an elegant tea-time snack. The delicate rose petals add a touch of sophistication, while the melt-in-your-mouth texture of the shortbread keeps things simple and satisfying.

The first time I baked these cookies, the aroma of rose and vanilla filled my kitchen, creating a sense of calm and nostalgia. They quickly became a favorite for gifting and hosting. What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is—you can adjust the amount of rose essence for a more pronounced floral note or add a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Making these cookies is a breeze, even for beginner bakers. With just a few high-quality ingredients and a little patience while the dough chills, you can create a batch of perfectly crumbly, aromatic cookies that are as lovely to look at as they are to eat. Whether for an afternoon tea party or as an edible gift, these Vanilla Rose Shortbread Cookies are sure to impress.

Perfect for:

• Afternoon tea parties
• Valentine’s Day or anniversaries
• Gift-giving in decorative boxes
• Floral-themed celebrations
• Elegant dessert tables

Why You’ll Love This Vanilla Rose Shortbread Cookies

Here’s why Vanilla Rose Shortbread Cookies will captivate your taste buds:

• Unique Flavor: The blend of vanilla and rose creates a sophisticated flavor profile.
• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: Buttery shortbread ensures a crumbly, tender cookie.
• Visually Stunning: Edible rose petals make these cookies as pretty as they are delicious.
• Simple to Make: With a few ingredients and steps, you can create a luxurious treat.
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or floral intensity to your liking.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour (includes chilling time)
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
• Calories per serving: Around 90-100 calories
• Key Nutrients: Carbohydrates: 11g, Fat: 5g, Protein: 1g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Vanilla Rose Shortbread Cookies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon rose water
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons edible dried rose petals (for garnish)
• Optional: Granulated sugar for sprinkling

Ingredient Highlights

• Butter: The base of shortbread, butter provides the rich, crumbly texture these cookies are known for.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor and adds a comforting warmth to the cookies.
• Rose Water: A little goes a long way in infusing the cookies with a subtle floral note.
• Edible Rose Petals: Adds elegance and a hint of floral aroma, making the cookies visually stunning.
• Powdered Sugar: Creates a tender texture compared to granulated sugar.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Vanilla Rose Shortbread Cookies:

Prepare the Dough:

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add Flavorings: Mix in the vanilla extract and rose water, ensuring they are evenly incorporated.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Chill the Dough:

4. Shape and Chill: Roll the dough into a log (about 2 inches in diameter) or flatten it into a disk. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.

Shape and Bake:

5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Slice or Cut: If you rolled the dough into a log, slice it into ¼-inch thick rounds. For a disk, roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface and cut out shapes with cookie cutters.
7. Decorate: Press a few edible rose petals onto each cookie for decoration. If desired, sprinkle a light dusting of granulated sugar for extra sparkle.
8. Bake: Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Serve:

9. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve: Arrange the cookies on a plate or package them in decorative boxes for gifting.

How to Serve Vanilla Rose Shortbread Cookies

Vanilla Rose Shortbread Cookies are versatile and can be served in many ways:

• With Tea or Coffee: Pair these cookies with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a creamy latte for a cozy afternoon treat.
• As a Dessert: Serve alongside whipped cream or ice cream for a light and elegant dessert.
• Gift Box: Wrap the cookies in a decorative tin or box for a thoughtful, homemade gift.
• At Parties: Display them on a dessert table for a floral-themed event or celebration.

Additional Tips for Vanilla Rose Shortbread Cookies

Here are some tips to ensure your Vanilla Rose Shortbread Cookies turn out perfectly:

• Use Quality Rose Water: The flavor of rose water can vary, so choose a high-quality brand for the best results.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
• Chill Thoroughly: Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading during baking.
• Check for Edible Roses: Ensure the dried rose petals you use are food-safe and free from chemicals.
• Store Properly: Keep the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and texture.

Recipe Variations for Vanilla Rose Shortbread Cookies

Here are 10 variations you can try for Vanilla Rose Shortbread Cookies:

1. Lemon Rose Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.
2. Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle the baked cookies with melted white or dark chocolate for extra indulgence.
3. Rose Pistachio Cookies: Mix in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped pistachios for a nutty flavor.
4. Lavender Rose Cookies: Add a pinch of dried culinary lavender for a floral medley.
5. Gluten-Free Cookies: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
6. Earl Grey Rose Cookies: Mix in 1 teaspoon of crushed Earl Grey tea leaves for a tea-infused flavor.
7. Rose Cardamom Cookies: Add ¼ teaspoon of ground cardamom for a warm, spiced note.
8. Coconut Rose Cookies: Substitute ¼ cup of flour with shredded coconut for added texture.
9. Almond Rose Cookies: Replace ¼ cup of flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor and tender texture.
10. Iced Rose Cookies: Decorate the cooled cookies with a thin layer of royal icing and a sprinkle of crushed rose petals.

Freezing and Storage for Vanilla Rose Shortbread Cookies

• Freezing: The cookie dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Roll it into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and place it in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.
• Storage: Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Special Equipment for Vanilla Rose Shortbread Cookies

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Vanilla Rose Shortbread Cookies easier:

• Electric Mixer: A stand or hand mixer helps cream the butter and sugar evenly.
• Plastic Wrap: Useful for chilling and shaping the dough.
• Cookie Cutters: For creating fun and decorative shapes.
• Parchment Paper: Ensures the cookies don’t stick to the baking sheet.

Frequently Asked Questions for Vanilla Rose Shortbread Cookies

1. Can I use fresh rose petals instead of dried?
   Dried rose petals are recommended for a more delicate flavor and better texture in the cookies.
2. How strong is the rose flavor?
   The rose flavor is subtle and can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the amount of rose water.
3. Can I make these vegan?
   Yes, replace butter with a plant-based alternative and use powdered sugar without added milk products.
4. Can I use granulated sugar instead of powdered sugar?
   Powdered sugar is preferred for its fine texture, which creates a tender cookie.
5. How do I know when the cookies are done?
   The edges should be lightly golden, but the centers will remain pale. Be careful not to overbake.

Print

Conclusion

Vanilla Rose Shortbread Cookies are an elegant and flavorful treat that bring a touch of sophistication to any occasion. With their buttery richness, delicate hints of rose, and the warm, comforting essence of vanilla, these cookies are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Perfect for tea parties, weddings, or as a thoughtful homemade gift, they’re sure to leave a lasting impression.

This recipe is as simple as it is special, making it easy to create these beautiful cookies whenever you’re craving something unique. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying them with a cup of tea, these cookies are a delicious way to elevate any moment.

I’d love to see how your Vanilla Rose Shortbread Cookies turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!