Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup sweet violet petals, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Special Equipment Needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutter (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add the flour, salt, sweet violet petals, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until the dough comes together.
4. Place the dough onto a sheet of parchment paper and roll it out to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Use a cookie cutter or a knife to cut the dough into desired shapes.
6. Place the shortbread onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
Makes about 24 cookies
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 120
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 25mg
Sugar: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Sweet violet petals can be substituted with other edible flowers such as rose petals or lavender.
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Variations:
- Add lemon zest or orange zest for a citrus twist.
- Add chopped nuts such as almonds or pecans for a crunchy texture.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before mixing.
- Don't overmix the dough, as it can result in tough cookies.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before rolling it out for easier handling.
Storage Instructions:
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating Instructions:
To reheat, place the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Arrange the cookies on a platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar or sweet violet petals for a beautiful presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle with powdered sugar or sweet violet petals.
Pairings:
Serve with a cup of tea or coffee.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Fresh fruit or a fruit salad.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it comes together.
- If the cookies are too crumbly, the dough may have been overmixed or not chilled long enough.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to use only edible flowers that have not been treated with pesticides or other chemicals.
Food History:
Shortbread originated in Scotland in the 16th century and was traditionally made with just butter, sugar, and flour.
Flavor Profiles:
Sweet, buttery, and floral.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a dessert or as a snack.
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