Are you craving a delightful treat that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further! This recipe elevates the simple Keebler Ready Crust to a whole new level of deliciousness, transforming it into a fantastic shortbread that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, these homemade shortbread cookies are a guaranteed success. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this quick and easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 package (14.1 ounces) Keebler Ready Crust
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts), sprinkles, or dried fruit for added flavor and texture.
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust:
Carefully remove the Ready Crust from its packaging. Gently crumble the crust into a medium-sized bowl using your hands or a food processor. Ensure you have relatively fine crumbs for a smooth texture.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients:
Add the softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract to the bowl with the crushed Ready Crust. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly combined. If using optional additions like nuts or dried fruit, add them now and stir gently to distribute them evenly.
Step 3: Shape the Shortbread:
Press the mixture firmly into a lightly greased 8x8 inch baking pan. You can use the bottom of a measuring cup or your hands to ensure an even layer. For a more rustic look, you can leave the top slightly uneven.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection:
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on it, as ovens can vary.
Step 5: Cool and Serve:
Let the shortbread cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares or your desired shape. Once cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tips for the Best Shortbread:
- Softened Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is properly softened; this will ensure it mixes well with the crust and creates a smooth, cohesive dough.
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking will result in dry and crumbly shortbread. Start checking for doneness around 12 minutes.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like chocolate chips, cinnamon, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
Variations:
- Chocolate Shortbread: Add 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the mixture for a decadent chocolate shortbread.
- Citrus Shortbread: Add the zest of one lemon or orange for a bright, refreshing flavor.
- Spiced Shortbread: Incorporate 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, comforting spice.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: Approximately 12-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
- Sugar: Approximately 8-10g
- Protein: Approximately 2-3g
These delicious and easy shortbread cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. They're a fantastic addition to any gathering or a delightful treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. This simple recipe proves that homemade delicious dishes don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Enjoy!