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Baking

The Best Buttery Shortbread Recipes That'll Melt In Your Mouth

Updated on Dec 6, 2019 by Melissa Girimonte

With the holidays just around the corner, it's about time we get baking — and in our humble (and hungry) opinion, there is no better way to enjoy traditional holiday flavours than with buttery, crumbly shortbread. Luckily, there are a multitude of ways to devour everyone's festive favourite. From classic to citrus-infused to pecan-chocolate to peppermint... your sweet tooth will be overwhelmed for all the right reasons.

  • Anna Olson's Shortbread Cookies
     
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    Anna Olson's Shortbread Cookies

    <p>This recipe makes a shortbread that's soft and tender, unlike the typically firm and crumbly version. For an extra treat, press a piece of chocolate nougat candy into the centre of each cookie.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/shortbread-cookies/5498/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Anna Olson’s Shortbread Cookies</strong></a></p>
  • Citrus Shortbreads
     
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    Citrus Shortbreads

    <p>Seasonal <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/photos/citrus-recipe-cold-winter-days/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">citrus</a> becomes a delightful dessert that brings the bright, festive flavours of tangerines to the holiday table. Grating citrus skin releases the oils and flavour without adding extra moisture to the cookie.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/citrus-shortbreads/19274/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Citrus Shortbreads</a></strong></p>
  • Chocolate Shortbread and Raspberry Napoleons
     
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    Chocolate Shortbread and Raspberry Napoleons

    <p>Juicy raspberries and rich swirls of pastry cream are layered between pieces of chocolate shortbread, forming a decadent napoleon stack. Finish with a dusting of icing sugar for a truly show-stopping dessert.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chocolate-shortbread-and-raspberry-napoleons/12772/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Anna Olson’s Chocolate Shortbread and Raspberry Napoleons</strong></a></p>
  • Caramel Chocolate Shortbreads
     
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    Caramel Chocolate Shortbreads

    <p>Simple shortbread is transformed into a decadent treat by topping it with layers of caramel, chocolate and toasted coconut. The secret to this easy recipe is mini chocolate chips that melt right into the cookie base.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/caramel-chocolate-shortbreads/22307/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Caramel Chocolate Shortbreads</strong></a></p>
  • Vanilla Bean Spritz Shortbread
     
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    Vanilla Bean Spritz Shortbread

    <p>These lovely cookies are sure to impress your guests. The elegant detailing can be achieved with a star-shaped tip on a piping bag or with a cookie press.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vanilla-bean-spritz-shortbread/12770/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Anna Olson’s Vanilla Bean Spritz Shortbread</strong></a></p>
  • Scottish Pan Shortbread
     
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    Scottish Pan Shortbread

    <p>Why settle for one shortbread cookie when you can have an entire pan? This recipe bakes one giant treat that can be sliced into wedges to be enjoyed over a few days (if you're lucky).</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/scottish-pan-shortbread/12771/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Anna Olson’s Scottish Pan Shortbread</strong></a></p>
  • Pecan and Chocolate Shortbreads
     
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    Pecan and Chocolate Shortbreads

    <p>Shortbread cookies are spiked with a hint of rum, and jazzed up with roasted pecans and a drizzle of melted <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/photos/anna-olson-best-chocolate-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">dark chocolate</a>. Be sure to make extra because it's impossible to eat just one!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pecan-and-chocolate-shortbreads/17568/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Pecan and Chocolate Shortbreads</strong></a></p>
  • Mini Linzer Cookies
     
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    Mini Linzer Cookies

    <p>Sweet and tart <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/photos/raspberry-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">raspberry</a> preserves are sandwiched between two buttery shortbread cookies. Heart-shaped cutouts are the key to this standout dessert.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mini-linzer-cookies/17439/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Ina Garten’s Mini Linzer Cookies</strong></a></p>
  • Ina Garten’s Shortbread Cookies
     
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    Ina Garten’s Shortbread Cookies

    <p> Buttery shortbread cookies are dipped in silky melted chocolate and left to harden for the perfect bite. Dip them into the chocolate at an angle or drizzle the melted chocolate over top for a pretty dessert. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ina-gartens-shortbread-cookies/17446/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Ina Garten’s Shortbread Cookies</strong></a> </p>
  • Matcha Shortbread Leaves
     
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    Matcha Shortbread Leaves

    <p>The slightly bitter flavour of matcha powder perfectly offsets the sweetness of the shortbread. Plus, the powder gives this dessert a beautiful green colour. Use a cookie cutter to shape them into leaves and a small knife to etch the veining design.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/matcha-shortbread-leaves/15093/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Matcha Shortbread Leaves</strong></a></p>
  • Ginger Shortbread
     
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    Ginger Shortbread

    <p> Cut into star shapes for a festive feel, a hint of spice is the perfect addition to these party-worthy cookies. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ginger-shortbread/17636/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Ina Garten's Ginger Shortbread</strong></a></p>
  • Vegan Shortbread Cookies
     
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    Vegan Shortbread Cookies

    <p>Think shortbread requires butter to be melt-in-your mouth delicious? Think again. This <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/dairy-free-breakfast-ideas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">dairy-free</a> recipe shows you how to make them fully vegan.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/holidays/blog/vegan-shortbread-cookies/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>Vegan Shortbread Cookies</strong></a></p>
  • Almond Shortbreads
     
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    Almond Shortbreads

    <p>This tender pan shortbread gets a double shot of nuttiness with both almond extract and whole almonds. For an elegant finish, use a fluted pan.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/almond-shortbreads/22290/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Almond Shortbreads</strong></a></p>
  • Keto Almond Shortbread Cookies
     
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    Keto Almond Shortbread Cookies

    <p>These <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/keto-snack-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">keto-friendly</a> and gluten-free cookies are made with almond extract, sliced almonds and almond flour, giving them an extra nutty flavour, while cream cheese and butter provide that tender shortbread texture.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/keto-almond-shortbread-cookies/22312/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Keto Almond Shortbread Cookies</strong></a></p>
  • Cardamom Crumble Shortbread Squares
     
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    Cardamom Crumble Shortbread Squares

    <p>Bold cardamom lifts up the sweet berry flavours of cherry, <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/photos/sweet-blueberry-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">blueberry</a> and blackberry in this spiced crumble shortbread. Dust with icing sugar before serving and enjoy with a piping hot cup of coffee for the perfect after-dinner treat.<p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cardamom-crumble-shortbread-squares/17490/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Cardamom Crumble Shortbread Squares</strong></a></p>
  • Rosemary-Lemon Shortbread Cookies
     
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    Rosemary-Lemon Shortbread Cookies

    <p>Seasonal citrus and Christmasy rosemary find the perfect home in sweet shortbread. Each buttery bite releases the beautiful and bright medley of fresh flavours.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/rosemary-lemon-shortbread-cookies/19731/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Valerie Bertinelli’s Rosemary Lemon Shortbread Cookies</a></strong></p>
  • Decorated Shortbread Cut-Out Cookies
     
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    Decorated Shortbread Cut-Out Cookies

    <p>Chocolate shortbread cookies are given a fun twist with cookie cutters and colourful icing. This is one dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/decorated-shortbread-cut-out-cookies/12773/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Anna Olson’s Decorated Shortbread Cut-Out Cookies</strong></a></p>
  • Light-As-Air Whipped Shortbread Cookies
     
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    Light-As-Air Whipped Shortbread Cookies

    <p>The secret to these light-as-air shortbread cookies is whipping the butter, sugar, cornstarch and vanilla until fluffy, then carefully mixing in flour until just combined. To achieve the decorative stripe pattern, roll the batter into balls, then flatten them with tines of a fork that have been dusted with flour.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/light-as-air-whipped-shortbread-cookies/14040/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Light-As-Air Whipped Shortbread Cookies</strong></a></p>
  • Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies
     
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    Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies

    <p>Tender, buttery and speckled with chunky chocolate chips, this tasty <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/photos/best-shortbread-recipes-holiday-baking/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">shortbread cookie</a> will be the dessert that steals the show at your next festive get-together.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chocolate-chip-shortbread-cookies/13836/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Anna Olson’s Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies</strong></a></p>
  • Peppermint and Chocolate Shortbread
     
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    Peppermint and Chocolate Shortbread

    <p>A sweet candy and crumbly cookie are packed into one decadent square. To serve, top the shortbread with silky white chocolate and sprinkle with crushed <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/blog/holly-jolly-peppermint-nanaimo-bars/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">peppermint</a> candy or candy canes.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/peppermint-and-chocolate-shortbread/11471/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Peppermint and Chocolate Shortbread</strong></a></p>
  • Greek Shortbread Cookies (Kourabiedes)
     
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    Greek Shortbread Cookies (Kourabiedes)

    <p> These bright white crescent cookies are the Greek version of shortbread, featuring the same buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture but adding almonds to the mix for a hint of nutty flavour. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/greek-shortbread-cookies-kouriabiedes/6157/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Greek Shortbread Cookies (Kouriabiedes)</strong> </a></p>
  • Strawberry Shortbread Jammy Bars
     
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    Strawberry Shortbread Jammy Bars

    <p>These shortbread bars are a far better use for classic strawberry jam than your morning toast. Sweet and super-buttery, they offer a taste of summer, anytime of year. Switch up the jams with what you love and make these your own.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/blog/strawberry-shortbread-jammy-bars/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Strawberry Shortcake Jammy Bars</strong></a></p>
  • White Chocolate Shortbread Cookies
     
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    White Chocolate Shortbread Cookies

    <p>Shortbread is always a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Add green and red sprinkles to give them a festive look.<p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/white-chocolate-shortbread-cookies/15610/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>The Pioneer Woman’s White Chocolate Shortbread Cookies</strong></a></p>
  • Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies
     
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    Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies

    <p>With bold chocolate flavour and studded with chewy bits of dried cherries, these tender and addictive shortbread cookies will become your go-to treat when <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/entertaining/photos/freezer-friendly-desserts-holiday-entertaining/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">holiday entertaining</a>.</p> <p> Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chocolate-cherry-shortbread-cookies/18962/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Giada De Laurentiis' Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies</strong></a> </p>
  • Daisy Shortbread Cookies
     
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    Daisy Shortbread Cookies

    <p>Ina Garten’s sweet flower-shaped shortbreads are perfect for a party. For a holiday spin, break out the red icing to create a tray of festive poinsettia cookies.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/daisy-shortbread-cookies/20033/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ina Garten’s Daisy Shortbread Cookies</a></strong></p>
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