Shortbread is a traditional Scottish biscuit (cookie) made from a simple combination of ingredients: flour, sugar, and butter. It is known for its crumbly, tender texture and rich buttery flavor. Unlike other cookies, shortbread doesn’t typically contain leavening agents like baking powder or soda, which contributes to its dense and crisp consistency.

Characteristics of Shortbread:

  • Texture: Crumbly and tender with a melt-in-your-mouth quality.
  • Flavor: Rich and buttery with a subtle sweetness.
  • Shape: Often shaped into fingers, rounds, or wedges (from a larger circular piece called a “petticoat tail”).
  • Preparation: The dough is usually chilled before baking to retain its shape and texture.

Shortbread is popular for its simplicity and versatility. It can be enjoyed plain or flavored with additions like vanilla, citrus zest, chocolate, or spices. It’s also a popular base for desserts like millionaire’s shortbread, which layers caramel and chocolate over the biscuit.

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