Thick Scottish Shortbread

Yields 12 squares.

To learn more, read:
A Foolproof Way to Make Luscious, Light Lemon Curd
by Elinor Klivans
from Fine Cooking
Issue 26
Last Edit Date: 3/6/2013 4:18:27 PM

Superfine sugar helps give these treats their delicate texture. If you can't find it, pulse granulated sugar in a food processor for about 30 seconds.

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6 oz. (1-1/2 cups) unbleached all-purpose flour
3-1/2 oz. (3/4 cup) cornstarch
1/8 tsp. salt
1/2 cup plus 2 Tbs. superfine sugar
8 oz. (16 Tbs.) unsalted butter, softened at room temperature for 1 hour and cut into 16 pieces
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Lemon Curd (optional)

Position a rack in the middle of the oven. Heat the oven to 300°F. Line an 8x8-inch brownie pan with heavy aluminum foil, letting the foil extend over two sides of the pan.

Sift the flour, cornstarch, and salt into a large bowl.Add 1/2 cup of the superfine sugar and, with an electric mixer on low speed, mix to just blend the ingredients. Add the butter pieces and vanilla and mix until large (1/4- to 1/2-inch) crumbs form, about 2 minutes. Very gently press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Don't pack the dough into the pan. Bake until the top of the shortbread just begins to turn golden, about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the remaining 2 Tbs. superfine sugar over the top. Cut the shortbread into 12 squares, being sure to cut through to the bottom. Cool completely before lifting the foil and shortbread from the pan.

If you like, serve the shortbread topped with Lemon Curd.

nutrition information (per serving):
Calories (kcal): 260; Fat (g): 16; Fat Calories (kcal): 140; Saturated Fat (g): 10; Protein (g): 2; Monounsaturated Fat (g): 5; Carbohydrates (g): 28; Polyunsaturated Fat (g): 1; Sodium (mg): 25; Cholesterol (mg): 40; Fiber (g): 0;

Photo: Rita Maas

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by CookinginDallas, 5/9/2010Simply the best. Wonderful flavor.

by Rebs, 5/2/2008This recipe worked really well using Splenda instead of sugar.Any diabetic could eat this, especially with the curd on top.

by kiwitart, 10/31/2007Yummy scrumptious. I have always been a "packer" and now knowing not to pack the dough into the tin the fantastic light result reminds me of my Scottish Grans shortbread. Many thanks Elinor. Regards Heather

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