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Paul Hollywood Shortbread Recipe

Paul Hollywood Shortbread
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Paul Hollywood is known for respecting traditional baking methods. Shortbread is a classic Scottish biscuit that relies heavily on butter for both flavor and texture.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Base Dough

  • 225 g unsalted butter, softened

  • 100 g caster sugar

  • 275 g plain flour

  • 50 g cornflour

  • Pinch of salt

Quality note: Use good-quality butter. Since shortbread relies heavily on butter, flavor matters greatly.

For Finishing

  • 1–2 tablespoons caster sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).

Line a baking tray or lightly grease a square tin if making traditional pressed shortbread.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat softened butter and caster sugar until pale and smooth.

Do not overwhip. You want it creamy, not airy.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift together flour, cornflour, and salt.

Gradually add to the butter mixture, mixing gently until a soft dough forms.

Avoid overworking. Stop once combined.

Step 4: Shape the Shortbread

Option 1: Roll out the dough to about 1.5 cm thickness and cut into fingers or rounds.

Option 2: Press the dough evenly into a square tin and prick the surface with a fork.

Chill the dough for 20 minutes before baking to help maintain shape.

Step 5: Bake Gently

Bake for 20–25 minutes until pale golden at the edges.

Shortbread should not brown deeply. A light golden color is ideal.

Step 6: Finish and Cool

Sprinkle caster sugar lightly over the top while still warm.

Allow to cool completely before cutting if baked in a tin.

 

Cooling is essential — shortbread firms up as it sets.

Find it online: https://britishrecipes.uk/paul-hollywood-shortbread-recipe/