There’s something magical about a cookie that crumbles delicately between your teeth and seems to dissolve into buttery sweetness before you’ve even swallowed. Shortbread is one of the simplest and most comforting treats, yet getting that perfect “melt-in-your-mouth” texture can feel like baking alchemy. Fortunately, this recipe delivers exactly that—minimal ingredients, uncomplicated steps, and gloriously soft results.
If you’re looking for a cookie that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea, dresses up a holiday dessert tray, or satisfies a sweet craving without any fuss, these melt-in-your-mouth shortbread cookies deserve a place in your kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
At its heart, traditional shortbread is built on three ingredients: butter, sugar, and flour. What sets this particular version apart is the addition of cornstarch, which gives the cookies their silky texture and signature softness. It lightens the dough just enough to create that dreamy, delicate crumb.
The ingredients are incredibly simple:
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
1 cup butter, softened
Notice the use of confectioners’ sugar instead of granulated sugar. The ultra-fine texture helps the dough blend into a smooth, creamy mixture that bakes into cookies with cloud-like softness.