Peephole Shortbread Cookies
Classic British shortbread cookies with a charming hole in the center, perfect for tea time or gifting. This british-inspired desserts ready in about 43 minutes layers (2 sticks) unsalted butter, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 150 calories and feeds 12, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: Beat 1 cup (2 sticks) softened unsalted butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar in a large bowl with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Step 2: Gradually add 2 cups all-purpose flour and 1/4 tsp salt, mixing on low speed until the dough comes together.
- Step 3: Divide the dough into two equal parts, roll each into a log about 1 inch in diameter, then press into a ring shape. Use a 1-inch round cookie cutter to cut a hole in the center of each ring.
- Step 4: Place the rings on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C), then bake for 15-18 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Dust with 1/2 cup powdered sugar before serving.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Peephole Shortbread Cookies take to make?
Total time is about 43 minutes (25 min prep + 18 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.
How do I store leftover Peephole Shortbread Cookies?
Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.
Can I substitute ingredients in Peephole Shortbread Cookies?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Peephole Shortbread Cookies for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 12 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 12). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Peephole Shortbread Cookies?
British desserts like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
Doubled the garlic (as one does) and it was amazing.
- ★★★★★
The flavors in this peephole are incredible.
- ★★★★★
Used half the salt and it was still plenty flavorful.
