Halloween Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Introduction
These Halloween Shortbread Cookies are simple yet festive treats perfect for the spooky season. Their buttery, crumbly texture pairs wonderfully with any Halloween decoration or party spread.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 2: Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture and mix until the dough comes together. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Step 3: Use Halloween-themed cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Step 4: Bake the cut-out cookies for 15–18 minutes or until the edges are pale golden. Let them cool completely before decorating or serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the dough.
- Decorate the cooled cookies with royal icing or colored sugar for a festive look.
- Chill the dough before rolling for easier cutting and better shape retention.
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To maintain crispness, avoid stacking freshly baked cookies until they are completely cooled. Reheat gently in an oven for a few minutes if they become soft.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before rolling and cutting. This helps the flavors develop and makes handling easier.
What if I don’t have cookie cutters?
If you don’t have themed cutters, use a knife to cut the dough into simple shapes like squares or rectangles, or press small shapes with the back of a spoon for a handmade look.
PrintHalloween Shortbread Cookies Recipe
These Halloween Shortbread Cookies are buttery, tender, and perfectly crisp with a subtle sweetness. Simple to make with basic ingredients—butter, flour, and sugar—they’re cut into festive shapes and baked to a delicate golden finish. Perfect for a spooky celebration or just a fun seasonal treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Cookies
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using a mixer until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and mix until the dough comes together and forms a smooth ball.
- Chill the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up, which makes it easier to roll and cut.
- Roll and cut shapes: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use Halloween-themed cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake the cookies: Bake the cut-out cookies in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes or until the edges are pale golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies tender.
- Cool the cookies: Remove the 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
- Make sure the butter is softened but not melted for the best texture.
- Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking.
- Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Decorate cooled cookies with icing or edible decorations to enhance the Halloween theme.
Keywords: Halloween cookies, shortbread, butter cookies, festive cookies, spooky treats
