Whipped Shortbread Cookies (Double-Whip Trick)

This simple double-whip trick makes whipped shortbread cookies lighter, meltier, and twice as airy — without adding extra ingredients.

These light, buttery whipped shortbread cookies melt the moment they hit your tongue. They’re soft, tender, and surprisingly easy to make with just a few pantry staples. If you love simple holiday treats or need a quick cookie for gifting, this recipe delivers every time.

The secret? Whip the butter twice: first on its own until pale and fluffy, then again after adding the powdered sugar. This builds extra air into the dough and creates the signature melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Ultra-light texture from whipped butter.
  • Only four core ingredients.
  • No chilling required.
  • Perfect for decorating or gifting.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Holiday sprinkles or colored sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 300°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Whip the butter: Beat softened butter on high for 5 minutes until very pale and fluffy.
  3. Double-whip: Add powdered sugar and vanilla, and whip again for 2–3 minutes until ultra-light.
  4. Reduce mixer speed and gradually add flour. Dough will be very soft.
  5. Scoop dough onto baking sheet using a tablespoon or small scoop.
  6. Decorate with sprinkles or press lightly with a fork.
  7. Bake 18–22 minutes, until bottoms are lightly golden and tops remain pale.
  8. Cool on the baking sheet 10 minutes before transferring to a rack.
Top-down view of whipped shortbread cookies with fork pattern

Tips & Variations

  • Chef’s Tip: The double-whip trick adds air and creates the melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Measure flour lightly to avoid crumbly cookies.
  • Swap vanilla for almond or peppermint extract.
  • Add 2 tbsp cocoa and reduce flour slightly for chocolate shortbread.

Storage

  • Room temp: Up to 5 days.
  • Freeze baked cookies: 2 months.
  • Freeze dough balls: Bake from frozen +1–2 minutes.

FAQs

Why are my whipped shortbread cookies crumbly?

Too much flour or under-whipped butter can cause dryness. Be sure to whip the butter long enough and spoon-and-level the flour.

Can I pipe the dough?

This dough is soft, but depending on your butter temperature, it can sometimes be piped with a star tip for a decorative look.

Do these cookies spread?

They barely spread, which helps them hold their pretty shape.

More to Try

Conclusion

These soft, buttery whipped shortbread cookies are simple, cozy, and perfect for holiday baking or gifting. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and endless decorating options, they’re a treat you’ll return to year after year. Bake a batch today and share the sweetness!

Print
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Whipped Shortbread Cookies on Ceramic Plate

Whipped Shortbread Cookies (Double-Whip Trick)


  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x

Description

These buttery whipped shortbread cookies melt in your mouth thanks to a simple double-whip trick. Light, tender, and perfect for the holidays.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Holiday sprinkles or colored sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 300°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Whip the softened butter on high for 5 minutes until very pale and fluffy.
  3. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and whip again for 2–3 minutes until ultra-light.
  4. Reduce mixer speed and gradually add the flour until combined. Dough will be very soft.
  5. Scoop dough onto the baking sheet using a tablespoon or small scoop.
  6. Decorate with sprinkles or press lightly with a fork.
  7. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until bottoms are lightly golden and tops remain pale.
  8. Cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a rack.

Notes

Whipping the butter twice is key for a soft, airy texture. Measure flour gently. Try almond or peppermint extract for a twist.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 90
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 10mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: shortbread, whipped shortbread, cookies, holiday cookies, butter cookies

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