Introduction

Sourdough shortbread cookies are a wonderful treat for anyone who loves a soft buttery cookie with a gentle tangy flavor. This recipe uses sourdough discard which means you can turn something simple into something truly special. Many people enjoy sourdough cookies because they offer a rich and comforting taste that feels homemade and heartwarming. Every bite gives a soft crumbly feel that melts in your mouth and makes you want just one more.

People love sourdough shortbread cookies because they bring together two beautiful worlds. They have the classic buttery taste of shortbread while also carrying the light flavor that comes from sourdough. This combination makes the cookie feel familiar yet exciting. It is the kind of cookie that reminds you of family gatherings, warm kitchens, and the smell of something delicious baking in the oven. These cookies feel both cozy and luxurious at the same time which makes them a favorite in many homes.

You can make these cookies on a peaceful afternoon when you want something sweet but simple. They are perfect for celebrations or quiet moments of comfort. Some people bake them when they want to use their sourdough discard in a meaningful way instead of throwing it away. Others make them because the soft texture and gentle sweetness feel calming after a long day. Whatever your reason this recipe brings smiles and sweetness in the easiest way.

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Ingredients You Will Need

All purpose flour 240 grams
Unsalted butter 230 grams at room temperature
Granulated sugar 120 grams
Sourdough discard 120 grams
Cornstarch 20 grams
Vanilla extract 2 teaspoons
Salt one half teaspoon

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Step by Step Method

Begin by preparing a large mixing bowl. Add the soft room temperature butter and the sugar. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend them together until the mixture looks creamy and smooth. This step helps create a tender texture in the final cookies because the sugar mixes well with the butter.

Add the sourdough discard to the bowl. Mix slowly until everything looks even. The mixture may appear slightly soft or silky which is exactly what you want. The sourdough will add a gentle tangy taste that balances the sweetness of the cookie.

Sprinkle the flour cornstarch and salt into the bowl. Add the vanilla extract as well. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold the ingredients together. The dough will start to become thicker as the flour absorbs the butter mixture. Keep mixing until the dough forms a smooth even ball with no dry parts.

Place the dough on a flat surface and shape it into a log or round disc using your hands. Wrap it tightly in a sheet of parchment or cover it in a bowl. Place the dough in the refrigerator for at least one hour. Chilling helps the butter firm up so the cookies hold their shape beautifully while baking.

Once the dough is chilled prepare a baking tray with parchment. Preheat your oven to a medium hot temperature ideally around one hundred seventy five degrees Celsius. Take the dough out of the fridge and slice it with a clean sharp knife. You can cut thick or thin cookies depending on your taste. Arrange the slices on the tray with a little space around them so they can bake evenly.

Bake for twelve to fifteen minutes or until the edges start to turn light golden. Take the cookies out of the oven and let them cool on the tray for a few minutes. Move them to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely. The texture becomes perfectly tender as they cool and their flavor becomes richer.

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Why This Recipe Is Special

This recipe is special because it uses sourdough discard which is often left unused. Instead of wasting it you can turn it into something delicious and satisfying. The sourdough adds a soft flavor that blends beautifully with the butter and sugar creating a cookie that tastes unique but still comforting. It is a wonderful way to enjoy homemade baked goods with a little twist.

Sourdough shortbread cookies also have a lovely texture. They feel soft crumbly and buttery in every bite. The presence of sourdough gives them extra tenderness without becoming heavy. They are not overly sweet which makes them perfect for people who enjoy balanced desserts. This cookie also has a calming aroma that spreads through the kitchen while baking.

Health wise this recipe can feel better than many store bought options because you know exactly what goes into it. You are using real butter real flour and real sourdough. There are no artificial flavors or preservatives. The sourdough also aids in digestion for many people which makes these cookies enjoyable and gentle on the stomach.

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Extra Tips for Better Taste

Chill the dough for a longer time if you want sharper edges and a more traditional shortbread texture. Some bakers even chill it overnight for the best results.

Use high quality butter because the flavor of the cookie depends strongly on the butter you choose. A rich butter will give a deeper and more satisfying taste.

If you want a little extra flavor try adding a small amount of lemon zest or orange zest to the dough. It adds a fresh aroma that pairs beautifully with the buttery taste.

You can also dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate for a fancy touch. Dark chocolate milk chocolate or white chocolate all work well with the gentle sourdough flavor.

Do not over bake the cookies. Remove them from the oven when the edges start to brown lightly. They will continue to firm up as they cool which keeps them soft and delicate.

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Final Thoughts

Sourdough shortbread cookies are a beautiful mix of comfort flavor and creativity. They are easy to make even for someone who has never baked before. This recipe helps you turn your sourdough discard into something delightful that everyone will enjoy. The cookies taste soft buttery and balanced with a slight tang that makes them memorable. Whether you bake them for family or simply for yourself they bring warmth to any moment.

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Nutrition Details

The following values are approximate and based on one cookie if the batch makes about twenty four cookies.

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Disclaimer

This recipe is shared for general enjoyment and information. Every body reacts differently to foods and ingredients. Results and digestion may vary from person to person. If you have any health concerns or special dietary needs please consult a professional before making changes to your diet.