Chocolate Shortbread II is a delightful treat that combines rich cocoa with a buttery texture. Perfect for a cozy afternoon or as a snack with your favorite beverage, the shortbread cookies will surely win over chocolate lovers. Simple to make, they are a sweet addition to any gathering.
If you’re looking to swap ingredients, feel free to use salted butter instead of unsalted, just omit the salt. For a gluten-free option, a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend can work wonders, but the texture may differ slightly. Ensure your cocoa is of good quality since it profoundly impacts flavor; a Dutch process cocoa adds a rich depth. Always check for allergens if serving others, particularly with dairy and gluten.
Cookies
Chocolate Shortbread Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup dutch process cocoa
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 3/4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 300°F and lightly grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 cup of sugar, then mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Gradually beat in 1/3 cup of dutch process cocoa, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1 3/4 cups of unbleached all-purpose flour until well combined.
- Divide the dough in half and press each half into the prepared pans, smoothing the surface with your fingers for an even texture.
- Use a fork to prick the dough in an attractive pattern; the not only looks nice but helps it bake evenly.
- Bake the shortbread for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges look set and slightly darker.
- Remove from the oven and loosen the edges with a heat-resistant plastic knife or table knife while it’s still warm.
- Wait 5 minutes, then carefully turn the shortbread out onto a clean work surface, taking care to keep it in one piece.
- While still warm, use a pizza wheel, bench knife, or sharp knife to cut each round into 12 wedges; it’s easier to cut now than once they’re cool.
- Transfer the wedges to a cooling rack and let them cool completely.
Part of our Homemade Cookie Recipes collection — Part 2 of 7:
If you’re in the mood for another chocolate delight, I recommend Chocolate Turtle Cookies. Merging chocolate with espresso and nuts, they create a symphony of flavors that will surely impress anyone lucky enough to sample them.