Delightfully Fragrant Cardamom Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Introduction
Cardamom Shortbread Cookies are buttery, tender treats with a warm, aromatic hint of cardamom. Perfect for enjoying with tea or as a simple, elegant snack any time of day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with the sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 2: Gradually add the flour and ground cardamom to the butter mixture. Mix until the dough comes together and is smooth.
- Step 3: Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass.
- Step 4: Bake the cookies for 15 to 18 minutes or until they turn lightly golden around the edges.
- Step 5: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Variations
- For a more intense cardamom flavor, toast whole cardamom pods lightly before grinding.
- Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a richer, nuttier cookie.
- Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to three months. Reheat gently in a warm oven if desired to bring back some crispness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use cardamom pods instead of ground cardamom?
Yes, but you will need to grind the pods into a fine powder before mixing them into the dough for even distribution of flavor.
How can I make these cookies vegan?
Replace the butter with a vegan butter alternative, and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly; the rest of the ingredients remain the same.
PrintDelightfully Fragrant Cardamom Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Delight in the subtle aromatic flavor of Cardamom Shortbread Cookies, a classic buttery treat infused with the warm spice of cardamom. These cookies offer a perfect balance of crispness and melt-in-your-mouth texture, ideal for tea time or a simple indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C) and allow it to reach temperature while you prepare the dough.
- Mix butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps achieve the tender texture for the cookies.
- Add the cardamom: Stir in the ground cardamom to evenly distribute its fragrant flavor throughout the dough.
- Incorporate the flour: Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and gently mix until just combined, taking care not to overwork the dough to maintain tenderness.
- Shape the dough: Roll the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter or press into a flat disc, then chill for 30 minutes to firm up for easier slicing or cutting.
- Cut and place on baking sheet: Slice the chilled dough into approximately 1/4-inch thick rounds and arrange them on an ungreased baking sheet, spaced slightly apart to prevent sticking.
- Bake the cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 18 to 22 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden at the edges, indicating they are perfectly baked.
- Cool and serve: Remove cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and smoother dough.
- Do not over-mix the dough once the flour is added to keep cookies tender.
- Chilling the dough is essential to prevent spreading during baking.
- Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Optionally, dust cookies with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.
Keywords: Cardamom cookies, shortbread, spiced cookies, buttery cookies, tea time cookies
