Shortbread Cookies (Espresso)

Ingredients

• 1 cup (226g) butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla (optional)
• 1 tbsp instant espresso powder

Method

1. Heat oven to 325°F. Line baking sheets with parchment.
2. Cream butter and powdered sugar; add vanilla if using.
3. Mix in flour and salt until a dough forms.
4. Add espresso powder with dry ingredients.
5. Roll to 1/4-inch thick and cut shapes (or slice a log).
6. Bake 16–20 minutes until just barely golden at edges.

Notes

Lower oven temp keeps shortbread tender and pale.