Our Very Best Shortbread Cookie Recipes

The best things in life are simple and sweet, which is exactly why we love these shortbread cookie recipes so much. Brought stateside by Scottish immigrants, shortbread cookies (sometimes called biscuit, especially by our friends in the U.K.) are generally made from a combination of all-purpose flour, granulated or confectioner's sugar, and lots of butter. Flavorings such as vanilla or almond extract may be added to the dough, as well as chopped or ground nuts, fresh citrus zest, or cocoa powder. Here, we're sharing our best buttery and flaky shortbread cookie recipes.

While there are many delicious variations worth mastering, you'll want to start with our Classic Shortbread cookie recipe. The process is so simple—combine all of the ingredients together and mix to form a dough, press into a pan, refrigerate, then bake and enjoy! Whether you eat them on their own or pair them with a cup of tea, there's no mistaking just how good these cookies are.

If you're a chocolate lover, then you'll adore our recipe for Mocha Shortbread; a tablespoon of instant espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor. Looking for a subtler chocolate flavor? Try a batch of Oat-and-Spelt Shortbread, which are nutty cookies dipped in melted chocolate and sprinkled with flaky sea salt. The balance is just right. For the holidays, why not serve a batch of Meyer-Lemon Shortbread Wreath Cookies? Adorned with sugared thyme and rosemary—as well as red, white, and green sprinkles—they're the most stunning (and edible) holiday greenery.

Grab a few sticks of butter, cookie cutters or a tart pan, and get baking.