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1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This moderate temperature ensures that the shortbread bakes evenly without browning too quickly.
2. Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease a 9-inch square baking pan or a similar-sized round pan. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cutting later.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done using a hand mixer or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment.
4. Add Vanilla Extract: For an extra layer of flavor, add the vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the vanilla flavor throughout the shortbread.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as it can lead to a tougher shortbread.
6. Press the Dough into the Pan: Transfer the shortbread dough to the prepared baking pan. Using your fingers or the back of a spoon, press the dough evenly into the pan. Ensure it reaches the edges for a uniform thickness.
7. Score the Dough: Use a sharp knife to score the shortbread into desired shapes. Traditionally, shortbread is cut into squares or wedges, but you can get creative with shapes if you prefer.
8. Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on the shortbread, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
9. Optional Sugar Sprinkle: While the shortbread is still warm from the oven, sprinkle a little extra granulated sugar over the top. This step adds a sweet crunch to the finished product.
10. Cool and Cut: Allow the shortbread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, using the previously scored lines as a guide, cut the shortbread into individual pieces. Allow it to cool completely in the pan before removing.
11. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, transfer your homemade shortbread to a serving plate. This delicious treat is perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.

Conclusion:

Homemade shortbread is a classic treat that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. This recipe provides a foolproof guide to creating buttery, crumbly goodness that will have your friends and family asking for seconds. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a delightful snack, this homemade shortbread recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.