Table of Contents: Whipped Shortbread Cookies
Whipped Shortbread Cookies
Imagine biting into a cookie so light, so buttery, and so melt-in-your-mouth perfect that it transports you back to cherished holiday memories. These Whipped Shortbread Cookies are not just a recipe—they’re a tradition waiting to happen.
Introduction: WHIPPED SHORTBREAD COOKIES
There’s something magical about WHIPPED SHORTBREAD COOKIES. With their delicate texture and rich, buttery flavor, they’re the epitome of CLASSIC SHORTBREAD perfection. These cookies are a staple during HOLIDAY BAKING, bringing warmth and joy to family gatherings, cookie exchanges, and cozy winter afternoons.
What sets these cookies apart is their airy, almost cloud-like texture, achieved by whipping the butter until it’s light and fluffy. Combined with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a hint of cornstarch, these cookies are melt-in-your-mouth divine. They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of pantry staples and minimal effort.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and versatile. Want to add a festive touch? Top them with colorful CHRISTMAS SPRINKLES. Hosting a tea party? These BUTTER COOKIES pair beautifully with a cup of Earl Grey. Looking for a quick treat to share with loved ones? These cookies are ready in no time.
Whipped Shortbread Cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of simplicity and tradition. So, grab your mixer and let’s create something truly special.
Alternate Names & Variations
You might hear these cookies called by different names or see variations of the recipe. Here are a few similar treats to explore:
– Classic Shortbread Cookies: A denser, crumbly version of this recipe.
– Scottish Shortbread: Traditionally made with just butter, sugar, and flour.
– Snowball Cookies: Rolled in powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
– Butter Cookies: Similar in texture but often piped into shapes.
Each variation offers a unique twist on the timeless BUTTER COOKIE theme, but today, we’re focusing on the airy, whipped version that’s perfect for HOLIDAY BAKING.
Ingredients: WHIPPED SHORTBREAD COOKIES

Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible cookies:
- – 1 ¼ cups unsalted butter, room temperature: Softened butter is key to achieving the perfect texture.
- – ¾ cup powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
- – 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the buttery flavor with a hint of warmth.
- – 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cookie dough.
- – ⅓ cup cornstarch: Gives the cookies their signature lightness.
- – ¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
- – Christmas sprinkles (optional): For a festive touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Whip the butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed for 3–4 minutes until light and fluffy.
3. Add the sugar and vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
4. Incorporate dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
5. Shape the cookies: Using a cookie scoop or teaspoon, portion the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
6. Add sprinkles (optional): Gently press Christmas sprinkles onto the top of each cookie for a festive look.
7. Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Chef Tip: For extra tenderness, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
Recipe Card Block
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 36 cookies | Calories: ~90 per cookie
Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips
These WHIPPED SHORTBREAD COOKIES work because of three key elements:
1. Whipped Butter: Beating the butter incorporates air, making the cookies light and airy.
2. Cornstarch: This secret ingredient ensures a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
3. Simplicity: With just a few ingredients, the flavors shine through beautifully.
Expert Tips:
– Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
– Don’t overmix the dough after adding the flour mixture—this can make the cookies tough.
– For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips
– Storage: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
– Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. You can also freeze the dough—shape it into balls and freeze before baking.
– Reheating: Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes.
People Also Ask: WHIPPED SHORTBREAD COOKIES

How do you make whipped shortbread cookies?
Making WHIPPED SHORTBREAD COOKIES is simple! Start by whipping softened butter until fluffy, then add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Gradually mix in flour, cornstarch, and salt. Shape the dough into balls, bake until golden, and enjoy.
What is the secret to good shortbread?
The secret lies in using room-temperature butter and whipping it properly to incorporate air. Adding cornstarch also helps create a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Why are my shortbread cookies not light and airy?
If your cookies are dense, it’s likely because the butter wasn’t whipped enough or the dough was overmixed. Be sure to whip the butter until light and fluffy and handle the dough gently.
Can you freeze whipped shortbread dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough! Shape it into balls, place on a baking sheet, and freeze. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion: WHIPPED SHORTBREAD COOKIES
These WHIPPED SHORTBREAD COOKIES are a testament to the beauty of simplicity. With their buttery flavor and delicate texture, they’re sure to become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire.
So, preheat your oven, grab your mixer, and let’s create some magic. Don’t forget to share your results—we’d love to hear how your cookies turned out!
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Whipped Shortbread Cookies
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 36 cookies 1x
Description
These Whipped Shortbread Cookies are melt-in-your-mouth buttery perfection—light, delicate, and ideal for the holidays or anytime you need a sweet treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sprinkles or candied cherries for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat butter until very light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
- Add powdered sugar and beat until fully combined and creamy.
- Mix in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to butter mixture, beating until light and whipped.
- Drop tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets or pipe using a star tip.
- Top with sprinkles or a piece of candied cherry if desired.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until bottoms are lightly golden (tops should remain pale).
- Cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
Do not overbake—these cookies are meant to stay pale and tender. They also freeze beautifully.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Canadian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: whipped shortbread, holiday cookies, butter cookies, easy dessert