Whipped Shortbread Cookies

One of my favourite Christmas cookies just happens to be Whipped Shortbread. Not just any old shortbread, Whipped Shortbread, and it has to be homemade. Since our son is home for the holidays, I decided it would be a good time to bake a batch of my favourite cookies. 

I can't remember the last time I baked but this recipe truly is very easy. I gathered all the ingredients together: flour, icing sugar, butter, vanilla and corn starch. 

OK, I thought I had ALL the ingredients but was missing one thing, cornstarch. I always substitute arrowroot powder so asked my husband and son to get some while out shopping. Not surprisingly, they couldn't find any. I decided to go ahead without it. 

The instructions said to whip all the ingredients together until the dough resembled whipped cream. I think that looks about right.

Drop spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets and bake for 12-15 minutes at 325 F. I tried parchment paper on one tray but it wasn't necessary. With 1 lb of butter in the recipe, these cookies do not stick.

I had hoped my son might take an interest in baking but both he and my husband stretched out on separate sofas. Late nights and shopping must be tiring. It's so nice to see my son making use of my Cosmic Rays Ripple blanket. I couldn't resist snapping a couple photos while the cookies baked. My husband was aware enough to say 'no' to photos but my son was sound asleep and blissfully unaware. Doesn't he look comfy and cozy? 

 

The cookies turned out perfectly despite having no arrowroot powder. I even sampled a couple just to confirm they taste as yummy as they look.

Three whole plates from this batch. The recipe said it should make five dozen but I think I used a bigger spoon so ended up with a few less. No matter as I'm sure they won't last long enough to count anyway.

Now that you've seen the pictures and heard how easy these are to make, I bet you want the recipe. You won't be sorry if you make some, they are positively melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Whipped Shortbread Cookies (my favourite)

1 lb butter (softened)

3 cups flour

1 cup icing sugar

1/2 cup cornstarch (optional)

1 teaspoon vanilla

Mix all ingredients and beat until dough has consistency of whipped cream. Drop by spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets. Decorate with cherries, etc. if desired. Bake at 325 F for 12-15 minutes. Makes 5 dozen. 

Note: I omitted cornstarch but added 1.5 tsp of baking powder.

In case you're wondering, before I baked, I rode my bike outside today. I did my favourite 35 km loop West of London through Delaware. It was wonderful and a welcome change from riding indoors on the trainer. I'm hoping the weather cooperates so I can get out again tomorrow. We have just over a month to get ready for our bike trip in Cuba. Counting down to both Christmas and Cuba, how exciting is that?

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