Name: Rosemary Shortbread Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup butter (softened); 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted); 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary (chopped)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something utterly delightful about the combination of sweet and savory, and these Rosemary Shortbread Cookies perfectly embody that balance. With a lovely buttery texture and the aromatic essence of fresh rosemary, these cookies are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the senses. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea, gifting them to a friend, or serving them at a gathering, these cookies are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of crafting these delectable treats in your own kitchen.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Rosemary Shortbread Cookies recipe stands out for its simplicity and the unique flavor profile it delivers. The use of fresh rosemary adds a fragrant herbaceous note that elevates the traditional shortbread experience. The buttery richness of the cookies pairs beautifully with the aromatic rosemary, creating a sophisticated treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, the recipe is straightforward, allowing even novice bakers to create something extraordinary.

What You’ll Gather

To make your Rosemary Shortbread Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cup (1 stick) butter, softened – This forms the base of your cookies, providing that rich, buttery flavor.
1 cup sifted powdered sugar – Sweetness is key, and sifted sugar ensures a smooth texture.
2 cups all-purpose flour – The backbone of your cookie dough, creating structure.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary – The star ingredient that brings an aromatic twist to your cookies.

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before you start baking, gather the following tools:

Mixing bowl – For combining your ingredients.
Electric mixer or whisk – For creaming the butter and sugar.
Baking sheet – To bake your cookies on.
Parchment paper – To prevent cookies from sticking and for easy cleanup.
Cookie cutter or knife – For shaping your cookies.
Cooling rack – To cool your cookies once they’re out of the oven.

Directions: Rosemary Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden hue.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sifted powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer or whisk, beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, typically about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate the Flour

Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Step 4: Add the Rosemary

Gently fold in the chopped fresh rosemary. The key here is to ensure the rosemary is evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut out shapes. If you prefer, you can also roll the dough into logs and slice them into rounds.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Place the shaped cookies onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Enjoy your Rosemary Shortbread Cookies warm or at room temperature!

Easy Ingredient Swaps

If you’re in need of substitutions, consider these easy swaps:

Butter – You can use coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Powdered sugar – If you don’t have any, you can make your own by blending granulated sugar until fine.
All-purpose flour – Almond flour or a gluten-free blend can also work, though the texture may differ.
Fresh rosemary – If fresh isn’t available, dried rosemary can be used, but reduce the amount to 1 tablespoon.

Steer Clear of These

When making your Rosemary Shortbread Cookies, it’s best to avoid:

Using margarine instead of butter, as it can affect both flavor and texture.
Skipping the sifting step for powdered sugar, which can lead to clumps.
Overmixing the dough, which can result in tough cookies.
Using stale or dried-out rosemary, as it won’t impart the same fresh flavor.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

These Rosemary Shortbread Cookies are fantastic for freezing! Here’s how to do it:

After shaping the cookies, you can freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
To bake from frozen, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my dough is too crumbly?

If your dough feels too crumbly, try adding a teaspoon of cold water or milk at a time until it comes together. Make sure not to add too much, as this can alter the texture.

Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried rosemary, but reduce the amount to 1 tablespoon to avoid overpowering the cookies.

Why are my cookies spreading too much during baking?

Over-softened butter or not chilling the dough before baking can cause excessive spreading. Ensure your butter is soft but not melted, and consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking.

How can I make my cookies more visually appealing?

Consider sprinkling a little extra powdered sugar on top of the cookies when they’re cooled, or drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for added flair.

Explore More

If you enjoyed these Rosemary Shortbread Cookies, you might love these additional recipes:

Sally’s Baking Addiction for more baking inspiration.
Pinch of Yum for delicious recipes that you can easily recreate.
Minimalist Baker for simple, plant-based recipes that are packed with flavor.

In Closing

Baking Rosemary Shortbread Cookies is not just about enjoying a delicious treat; it’s about the experience and joy of creating something wonderful from scratch. The fragrant rosemary adds a distinctive twist to the classic shortbread, making these cookies a memorable addition to your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring them solo, these cookies are sure to delight. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress with these delectable Rosemary Shortbread Cookies!