Why You’ll Love Chocolate Chip Shortbread Recipe
These cookies have a rich buttery flavor with just the right amount of sweetness.
The shortbread texture is soft, crumbly, and delicate while the chocolate adds a satisfying bite.
They are simple to make with pantry staples and require minimal preparation.
The dough is easy to work with, making these cookies great for baking with family or friends.
They store well, so you can enjoy them for days after baking.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
115 g unsalted butter, softened
50 g caster (superfine) sugar
130 g plain (all-purpose) flour
2 tablespoons cornflour (cornstarch)
⅓ cup finely chopped 70% chocolate or mini chocolate chips
2 teaspoons granulated sugar for dusting
Directions
Preheat the oven to 170°C / 340°F / 150°C fan forced. Line two baking trays with parchment paper.
Beat the softened butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy using a hand mixer, stand mixer, or wooden spoon.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and cornflour.
Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and mix on low speed until almost combined.
Add the chopped chocolate or mini chocolate chips and continue mixing until the dough starts clumping together.
Gather the dough into a ball and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 12mm (½ inch) thick.
Use a small round cookie cutter, about 4cm wide, to cut out the cookies. Gather and reroll scraps as needed.
Transfer the cookies to the prepared baking trays and sprinkle lightly with granulated sugar.
For best results, chill the cookies for 15 minutes before baking.
Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Servings and timing
Servings: 18 cookies
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 12–14 minutes
Total time: 27 minutes
Variations
Use milk chocolate or white chocolate chips for a sweeter flavor.
Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough for extra warmth.
Mix in finely chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for crunch.
Dip half of each cooled cookie in melted chocolate for a bakery-style finish.
Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty contrast.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months.
You can also freeze the unbaked dough and bake fresh cookies whenever needed.
These cookies do not require reheating, but a few seconds in the microwave can slightly soften them if desired.
FAQs
Why is my shortbread dough crumbly?
Shortbread dough is naturally crumbly because of the high butter content. Press it together gently with your hands until it forms a dough.
Can I use regular granulated sugar instead of caster sugar?
Yes, but caster sugar blends more smoothly into the butter and creates a finer texture.
What does cornflour do in shortbread?
Cornflour helps create the soft, delicate texture that makes shortbread tender and crumbly.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes. The dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking.
Why should I chill the cookies before baking?
Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents spreading.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce or skip any additional salt if you decide to add some.
How do I know when shortbread is done baking?
The cookies should remain pale with only slight golden coloring around the edges.
Can I use chocolate chips instead of chopped chocolate?
Yes. Mini chocolate chips work especially well in this recipe.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes. Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for baking.
What drinks pair well with these cookies?
They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or milk.
Conclusion
Chocolate Chip Shortbread is a simple yet elegant cookie recipe with a rich buttery texture and bits of chocolate in every bite. Whether served with coffee, packed into gift boxes, or enjoyed as an everyday treat, these cookies are always a delicious choice.
