Did you know that 1 serving of butter shortbread cookies only has 120 calories? They're the perfect treat for anyone who wants something sweet without a lot of guilt.

Butter shortbread cookies are a classic cookie that are made with just a few simple ingredients. They're known for their rich, buttery flavor and crisp, tender texture.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about butter shortbread cookies, from the ingredients to the different flavors to pairing suggestions.

What are Butter Shortbread Cookies?

Butter shortbread cookies are a type of cookie that are made with butter, sugar, and flour. They're known for their rich, buttery flavor and crisp, tender texture. Shortbread cookies have been around for centuries, and are believed to have originated in Scotland. They were originally considered a luxury item, as butter was quite expensive at the time.

Ingredients in Butter Shortbread Cookies

Butter shortbread cookies are made with just a few simple ingredients: - Butter - Sugar - Flour - Salt Some recipes may also include flavorings, such as vanilla or lemon zest.

Calories in Butter Shortbread Cookies

One serving of butter shortbread cookies (2 cookies) has approximately 120 calories. However, the actual calorie count may vary depending on the recipe and the size of the cookies. If you're watching your calorie intake, you can still enjoy butter shortbread cookies in moderation. Just be sure to keep track of how many you eat!

Preparing Butter Shortbread Cookies

Preparing butter shortbread cookies is relatively simple. Here's a basic recipe: Ingredients: - 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature - 1/2 cup sugar - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1/4 teaspoon salt Instructions: 1. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. 2. Add the flour and salt, and mix until just combined. 3. Divide the dough in half, and shape each half into a disk. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. 4. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 5. Roll out one disk of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to cut out the desired shapes. 6. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. 7. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Size of Butter Shortbread Cookies

A serving size of butter shortbread cookies is typically 2 cookies. This will provide you with around 120 calories. Of course, you can adjust the serving size depending on your calorie needs and preferences.

Benefits of Butter Shortbread Cookies

While butter shortbread cookies are not exactly health food, they do have a few benefits: - They're a simple, satisfying treat that can satisfy a sweet tooth without going overboard on calories. - They're easy to make and can be customized with different flavors and shapes. - They're a classic cookie that everyone loves! Of course, like any treat, it's important to enjoy butter shortbread cookies in moderation.

Different Flavors of Butter Shortbread Cookies

While traditional butter shortbread cookies are delicious on their own, you can also experiment with different flavors and add-ins. Here are a few ideas to get you started: - Lemon zest - Chocolate chips - Almond extract - Dried cranberries - Cinnamon Try mixing and matching flavors to create your own unique cookie!

Storage of Butter Shortbread Cookies

Butter shortbread cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, simply wrap the cookies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.

Pairing Suggestions with Butter Shortbread Cookies

Butter shortbread cookies are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed with a variety of beverages and toppings. Here are a few ideas to get you started: - Tea or coffee - Hot cocoa - Whipped cream and berries - Ice cream Get creative and try different pairings to find your favorite!

Variations of Butter Shortbread Cookies

While traditional butter shortbread cookies are always a crowd-pleaser, you can also experiment with different variations to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas: - Use brown sugar instead of white sugar for a slightly different flavor. - Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for some crunch. - Dip the cookies in melted chocolate for a decadent treat. - Make sandwich cookies by spreading jam or frosting between two cookies.