Name: Buttery Buckingham Palace Shortbread Cookies for Tea Time Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Salted Butter (Use European-style salted butter for the best flavor.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla (Almond extract can be used for a different flavor profile.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Ensure it is sifted for smooth incorporation.); 1/4 cup Cornstarch (More can be used for dusting surfaces.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Do not overwork to avoid tough cookies.)

The warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen is one of life’s simple pleasures. Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that embodies that joy: Buckingham Palace Shortbread Cookies. With just five ingredients, this traditional Scottish treat is a true testament to the beauty of simplicity, enjoyed by none other than Queen Elizabeth during her afternoon tea. These buttery delights are not only easy to make but also a fantastic crowd-pleaser for gatherings and cozy afternoons alike. Imagine pairing these melt-in-your-mouth cookies with your favorite hot beverage or showcasing them at your next special occasion. Are you ready to indulge in a royal experience from the comfort of your home?

Why are these cookies so beloved?

Simplicity: With just five ingredients, these cookies make baking accessible for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice.

Rich, Buttery Flavor: Infused with high-quality butter and a hint of vanilla, each bite melts in your mouth, offering a taste of royalty.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting an afternoon tea, a bridal shower, or simply enjoying a quiet moment, these cookies are the perfect companion.

Versatile Options: Feel free to customize them with variations like almond extract or spicy pumpkin pie seasoning, making them uniquely yours! Check out my Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies for an exciting twist.

Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a good shortbread, making these cookies a hit at any gathering! Pair them with your favorite hot beverage or serve them alongside adorable treats like Lavender Shortbread Cookies for a delightful dessert spread.

Buckingham Palace Shortbread Cookies Ingredients

Elevate your baking with this simple, royal recipe!

For the Cookies

Salted Butter – Provides richness and a tender crumb. Use European-style salted butter for the best flavor.
Vanilla – Adds a warm, aromatic sweetness. Almond extract can be used for a different flavor profile.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and gives the cookies a delicate texture. Ensure it is sifted for smooth incorporation.
Cornstarch – Contributes to the cookies’ melt-in-your-mouth quality. More can be used for dusting surfaces.
All-Purpose Flour – The main structure of the cookies. Do not overwork to avoid tough cookies.

These Buckingham Palace Shortbread Cookies promise to be a slice of royal indulgence with their luxurious taste and simplicity!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buckingham Palace Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that your Buckingham Palace Shortbread Cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden edge. While the oven is heating, prepare your baking sheet by greasing it lightly or lining it with a silicone mat for easy cookie removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, sift together the powdered sugar and cornstarch, creating a smooth mixture that enhances the texture of your cookies. This step is crucial for avoiding any lumps and allows the dry ingredients to blend effortlessly into your dough. The fine particles will help give the cookies their melt-in-your-mouth quality, characteristic of traditional shortbread.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Vanilla
Using a stand mixer, add the softened salted butter and vanilla extract to the sifted dry ingredients. Beat them together on medium speed until the mixture turns light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This process aerates the butter, making your Buckingham Palace Shortbread Cookies rich and tender. Scrape down the sides to ensure all ingredients are properly combined.

Step 4: Mix in the Flour
Gradually add your all-purpose flour to the creamed mixture while mixing on low speed. As soon as the flour is incorporated and a dough forms, stop mixing to prevent overworking it, which can lead to tough cookies. Your dough should be a cohesive ball but still soft and slightly sticky, ready for shaping.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
Lightly dust your countertop with powdered sugar to prevent sticking, and place the dough on the surface. With a rolling pin, roll out the dough to about ½ inch thick, ensuring a consistent thickness for even baking. As you roll, check for stickiness; dust with more powdered sugar if needed to keep the dough manageable.

Step 6: Cut the Dough
Using a sharp knife or a cookie cutter, cut the rolled dough into rectangles or your preferred shapes. Transfer the cookies to your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them to allow for expansion. To add a traditional touch, use a fork to prick the tops of each cookie, which helps with even cooking and gives them a delightful texture.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies, as they should turn golden brown around the edges while still looking pale on top. Each minute counts, so watch for that perfect moment when they are ready to come out!

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This step lets them set slightly before transferring to a wire rack. Once they are cooled completely, enjoy the delightful texture and buttery flavor of your freshly baked Buckingham Palace Shortbread Cookies with your favorite cup of tea!

What to Serve with Buckingham Palace Shortbread Cookies

Delight in a feast for the senses as you create a meal that perfectly complements these royal, buttery treats.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and velvety, these mashed potatoes create a creamy contrast to the crumbly texture of the cookies.
Earl Grey Tea: This fragrant, bergamot-infused tea enhances the buttery flavor of the cookies, making your tea time a real indulgence.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a burst of sweetness and tartness, beautifully balancing the richness of the shortbread.
Cheese Platter: A simple mix of soft cheeses, like brie or camembert, offers a luxurious, savory dimension to your afternoon delight. Try pairing it with the cookies for a unique twist!
Chocolate Dipped Fruit: Strawberries or oranges dipped in dark chocolate provide a decadent sweetness, perfect alongside the buttery notes in the cookies.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream brings a cool creaminess that contrasts nicely with the warm cookies, creating an enticing experience.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: This refreshing beverage cleanses the palate and elevates your entire experience, offering a zesty counterpoint to the sweetness.
Hidden Treasure Brownies: These fudgy brownies add a rich chocolatey element that complements the subtle plainness of the shortbread—heavenly together!
Honey Lavender Tea: A fragrant, floral option that enhances your tea time with an aromatic touch, harmonizing beautifully with the shortbread.
Almond Biscotti: Combining textures, these crunchy cookies bring a delightful contrast while echoing the buttery notes of the Buckingham Palace Shortbread.

Make Ahead Options

These Buckingham Palace Shortbread Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking, which saves you valuable time on busy days. Simply mix the ingredients, roll out the dough, and shape it into rectangles as instructed. Then, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap to prevent any drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy these royal treats, just slice the chilled dough and bake as per the original recipe instructions. This way, you’ll have fresh, buttery cookies that are just as delicious with minimal effort and time!

Buckingham Palace Shortbread Cookies Variations

Feel free to explore and make these royal treats your own with delightful twists and substitutions!

Almond Extract: Swap vanilla for almond extract and add chopped almonds for a nutty flavor.
Citrus Burst: Replace vanilla with orange extract and dip in dark chocolate for a zesty variation. The chocolate will add a luxurious touch, transforming your cookies into a decadent dessert.
Spiced Delight: Add 1 teaspoon of seasonal spices like pumpkin pie spice for a warm, festive flair. Imagine enjoying these cookies while basking in the autumn chill or around the holiday season!
Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate cocoa powder into the flour mixture for chocolaty shortbread cookies. You can also drizzle melted chocolate on top for extra indulgence! This variation makes your cookies even more tempting and delightful.
Nutty Crunch: Mix in a half cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the buttery softness of the cookies.
Dried Fruit: Fold in a handful of dried cranberries or cherries for a touch of sweetness and chewiness. These fruity notes can add a surprise to each bite, giving a lovely burst of flavor.
Savory Twist: For an interesting take, add a pinch of sea salt and rosemary to the dough for a savory flavor experience. These can be perfect for pairing with cheese during gatherings, making them a sophisticated choice.
Layered Treat: For an extra indulgence, sandwich two cookies with your favorite jam or lemon curd. The sweetness of the filling will elevate the straightforward buttery flavor to a festive delight.

Consider also serving these cookies with a side of tea or coffee—maybe try pairing them with the delicate flavors of Lavender Shortbread Cookies or brighten up your dessert table with Strawberry Crunch Cookies!

Expert Tips for Buckingham Palace Shortbread Cookies

Use Room Temperature Butter: Allow your salted butter to soften at room temperature before creaming; it ensures a lighter texture in your cookies.
Sift Ingredients: Sifting the powdered sugar and cornstarch prevents lumps, resulting in smooth, melt-in-your-mouth Buckingham Palace Shortbread Cookies.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until it comes together; overmixing can lead to tough cookies that lose their delicate texture.
Watch the Baking Time: Bake until the edges are golden and the tops are pale; this balance keeps your cookies tender and buttery throughout.
Proper Cooling: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to prevent cracking when handled.

How to Store and Freeze Buckingham Palace Shortbread Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 1 week. Enjoy them at their best with a cup of tea!

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies to extend their shelf life. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 weeks, just remember to bring them to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge.

Reheating: If you want to enjoy warm cookies, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This will refresh their buttery texture and melt-in-your-mouth goodness!

Buckingham Palace Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right butter for these cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your Buckingham Palace Shortbread Cookies, I highly recommend using European-style salted butter. It has a higher fat content than regular butter, resulting in a richer taste and a tender crumb. Look for butter with a creamy yellow color—this is a good indicator of quality!

How should I store these cookies to keep them fresh?
To maintain freshness, store your Buckingham Palace Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They pair wonderfully with tea during this time. If you want to extend their life, refrigerating them can keep them fresh for up to 2 weeks. Just remember to let them warm to room temperature before serving.

Can I freeze Buckingham Palace Shortbread Cookies, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can! To freeze your cookies, simply place them in a single layer in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. If you’re freezing the dough instead, shape it into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and slice, then bake as directed.

What if my cookies are too hard after baking?
If your Buckingham Palace Shortbread Cookies turn out too hard, they might have been overbaked or overmixed. Make sure to bake them just until the edges are golden while the tops remain pale. If you feel they’re hard post-baking, try placing them in an airtight container with a slice of bread for a few hours; the moisture can help soften them up!

Are these cookies suitable for those with allergies?
Great question! These cookies contain butter and flour, making them unsuitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies. For a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based butter. If you’re concerned about gluten, gluten-free all-purpose flour can work as a substitute, but please note that the texture may vary slightly. Always double-check labels if you’re baking for someone with severe allergies.

Can I customize the flavors of the cookies?
Very! These Buckingham Palace Shortbread Cookies are highly versatile. If you wanted to try something different, replace the vanilla extract with almond extract or even incorporate orange extract for a refreshing twist. You could also add in half a cup of chopped almonds for a delightful crunch. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!