Tea Time

Shortbread - Perfect for Christmas afternoon tea

I still remember my Grandmother making Shortbread every Christmas, but it was not just any Shortbread, but genuine Scottish Shortbread. Over the past few years, I've found myself now also making a batch or two of genuine Scottish Shortbread at Christmas, using her tried and tested recipe.  This is a simple rustic shortbread that goes great with your favourite pot of tea or coffee. Enjoy!

Genuine Scottish Shortbread

Genuine Scottish Shortbread

Ingredients:

  • 250g softened butter
  • 3/4 cup caster sugar
  • 2 1/3 cups plain flour
  • pinch salt
  • 1/4 cup extra caster sugar for dusting

Method:

  1. Heat fan forced oven to 160 degrees.
  2. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the flour and salt.
  4. Turn shortbread out onto a floured board and knead well.
  5. Divide into 4 portions, press each portion into rounds about 1 1/2 cm thick.
  6. Cut each round into 8 equal pieces (don't cut all the way through).
  7. Pinch the edge and prick with a fork.
  8. Dust with the extra caster sugar.
  9. Place on a baking tray lined with baking paper and bake for 30 to 35 mins or until just starting to brown.
  10. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before moving to an airing rack.