Chocolate shortbread cookies combine the buttery richness of traditional shortbread with the indulgent flavor of cocoa. These tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are perfect for holiday baking, gifting, or simply satisfying your chocolate cravings. Best of all, they’re incredibly easy to make with just a handful of pantry staples.
What Are Chocolate Shortbread Cookies?
Chocolate shortbread cookies are a delightful twist on classic shortbread, incorporating cocoa powder into the dough for a rich chocolate flavor. With a tender, crumbly texture and a touch of sweetness, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser. Whether shaped into festive designs or kept simple, they are versatile enough for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Make: Requires only a few basic ingredients.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Elegant enough for parties but easy enough for everyday treats.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Stores beautifully, so you can bake in advance.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings, shapes, or flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (30g) cocoa powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until smooth and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Shaping the Cookies
- Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough to approximately ¼-inch (6mm) thickness.
- Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes or slice the dough into rectangles for a classic look.
- Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to prevent spreading during baking.
Baking
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set and slightly firm. Avoid overbaking to maintain a tender texture.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional Finishing Touches
- Drizzle the cooled cookies with melted chocolate or dust them with powdered sugar for a festive look.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or cocoa for a cozy treat.
- Serve them as part of a dessert platter alongside fresh fruit or other holiday cookies.
Storing and Freezing
Storage Tips
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- For extended freshness, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing Instructions
- Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.
- Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container. Store for up to 3 months.
- Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Extra Chocolatey: Stir mini chocolate chips into the dough.
- Nutty Twist: Add ¼ cup of finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans.
- Spiced Chocolate: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for a warm kick.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt to a pinch to balance the flavors.
Why do I need to chill the dough before baking?
Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents excessive spreading.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
Look for set edges and a slight firmness—avoid waiting for them to brown, as they can dry out.
Chocolate shortbread cookies are a simple yet sophisticated treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their rich chocolate flavor and buttery texture, they’re sure to impress your family and friends. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your creations—we’d love to hear how you made them uniquely yours!
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Chocolate Shortbread Cookies: A Decadent Treat for Any Occasion
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 20-24 cookies (depending on size)
Description
Indulge in these buttery, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate shortbread cookies. Made with simple ingredients and rich cocoa flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to an everyday treat with your favorite hot drink.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (30g) cocoa powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
- Use cookie cutters to create shapes or slice into rectangles.
- Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
- Chill the cookies in the fridge for 15 minutes to prevent spreading.
- Bake:
- Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set. Avoid overbaking to maintain a tender texture.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional Decoration:
Once cooled, drizzle with melted chocolate or dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened for easy creaming.
- Chilling the dough helps maintain the cookie shapes during baking.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: ~120 per cookie