Are you ready to embark on a baking journey that results in melt-in-your-mouth cookies? Then look no further! This recipe for Canada cornstarch shortbread cookies delivers a delightful, delicate texture that's simply irresistible. These easy recipes are perfect for beginner bakers, yet sophisticated enough to impress even the most seasoned cookie connoisseurs. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this quick dinner idea – a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a breeze to prepare. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- Pinch of salt
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Cookie Perfection
Follow these simple steps to create these delicious dishes:
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Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Use an electric mixer for best results; this is where the magic happens!
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Add Vanilla Extract: Beat in the vanilla extract until well combined.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt.
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Gradually Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a slightly lumpy dough is okay.
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Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
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Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Roll and Cut: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes. You can also use a knife to cut simple squares or rectangles.
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Bake: Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
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Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Tips for Extra Delicious Cookies
- Softened Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is properly softened – it should be easily spreadable but not melted.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Chill Time is Important: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and ensures a better texture.
- Adjust Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies and adjust the baking time as needed.
Variations: Make it Your Own
- Add Flavor: Experiment with different extracts like almond or lemon.
- Sprinkles: Add sprinkles before baking for a festive touch.
- Glaze: Once cooled, drizzle with a simple glaze for extra sweetness.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie - Approximate)
This will vary depending on the size of your cookies. The nutritional information below is an estimate and should be considered as a guideline only. For precise nutritional information, you should use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients and cookie size.
- Calories: Approximately 80-100
- Fat: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-12g
- Protein: Approximately 1g
These Canada cornstarch shortbread cookies are a delightful addition to any cookie jar. Their delicate texture and subtly sweet flavor make them perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and the satisfaction of creating these best recipes!