Spring Flower Shortbread Cookies
Why Make This Recipe
Spring Flower Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that celebrates the beauty of the season. With their bright colors and tasty flavors, these cookies are perfect for spring gatherings, picnics, or simply enjoying at home with a cup of tea. They are simple to make and are sure to bring joy to anyone who sees and tastes them.
How to Make Spring Flower Shortbread Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
- Edible flower sprinkles or decorations (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
- If you want colorful cookies, divide the dough into parts and add a few drops of food coloring to each part. Mix until the color is even.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Use flower-shaped cookie cutters to cut out cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- If using, sprinkle edible flower decorations on top of the cookies.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before enjoying.
How to Serve Spring Flower Shortbread Cookies
Spring Flower Shortbread Cookies can be served in many ways. They look lovely on a decorative plate at a spring party or a picnic. You can also pack them in a box or bag as a gift. Pair them with tea, coffee, or lemonade for a refreshing treat.
How to Store Spring Flower Shortbread Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay good for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to three months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
Tips to Make Spring Flower Shortbread Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened properly for easy mixing.
- If you want more flavor, try adding almond extract instead of vanilla.
- Use a rolling pin with guides to keep the dough even.
- Experiment with different shapes and decorations to match different occasions.
Variation
You can add different flavors to these cookies by mixing in lemon zest, orange zest, or even coconut. Try adding chocolate chips for a sweet twist, or use different cookie cutters to create themed shapes for holidays.
FAQs
What can I use instead of unsalted butter?
You can use salted butter, but reduce the salt in the recipe. Margarine is also an option, but it may change the taste slightly.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version, but the cookies may turn out a bit denser.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the edges are light golden brown. They may look soft in the middle, but they will firm up as they cool.

Spring Flower Shortbread Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful shortbread cookies celebrating spring with vibrant colors and flavors, perfect for gatherings or enjoying at home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
- Edible flower sprinkles or decorations (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
- If using food coloring, divide the dough and add drops to each part, mixing until the color is even.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Use flower-shaped cookie cutters to cut out cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- If desired, sprinkle edible flower decorations on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before enjoying.
Notes
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Freeze them in a bag for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American