Description
This Easy Shortbread Crust is a simple, buttery, tender, and incredibly forgiving base perfect for fruit tarts, lemon bars, and countless other sweet or savory desserts. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time.
Ingredients
- Unsalted Butter, cold – 1 cup (2 sticks), cut into pieces
- All-Purpose Flour – 2 cups
- Granulated Sugar – ½ cup
- Pinch of Salt – ¼ teaspoon
Instructions
- 1. 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- 2. 2. In a large bowl, cream together the cold butter, granulated sugar, and salt until light and fluffy. This creates the foundation for your Easy Shortbread Crust.
- 3. 3. Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. The dough will be crumbly but should hold together when squeezed. Do not overmix; overmixing can make your shortbread base tough.
- 4. 4. Press the dough evenly into a 9-inch pie plate or a 9×13 inch baking pan. Use your fingers or the bottom of a glass to create an even layer for this delightful Easy Shortbread Crust.
- 5. 5. Prick the bottom of the crust several times with a fork.
- 6. 6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. This ensures a perfectly baked Easy Shortbread Crust.
- 7. 7. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack before filling. Your delicious shortbread crust is now ready for its close-up!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Crust, Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Scottish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Easy Shortbread Crust, shortbread, crust, base, pie crust, tart crust, buttery, tender, simple, versatile, make ahead, dessert, baking, lemon bars, fruit tarts