Shortbread has a history as rich as its buttery flavour, tracing its roots back to medieval Scotland.
Originally, shortbread began as a simple biscuit made from leftover bread dough, which was baked at a low temperature until it dried out and became crispy.
This early form was known as "biscuit bread" and was a humble treat for Scottish households.
Over time, bakers began to replace the yeast in the dough with butter, creating a richer, more crumbly texture. Butter was a precious commodity, so shortbread evolved into a luxury treat that was reserved for special occasions like Christmas, weddings.
The word "shortbread" itself comes from the term "shortening" or "short," referring to its high fat content, which gives the dough its characteristic "short," crumbly texture. Traditionally, shortbread was made with three simple ingredients: flour, butter, and sugar. To this day, this classic recipe endures, though many variations exist around the world, with bakers adding their own favourite ingredients—like nuts, spices, or dried fruits—to give it a personal touch.
Today, shortbread has become a beloved Christmas staple, enjoyed globally as a symbol of festive indulgence and hospitality.
As the Christmas season draws near, there’s nothing quite like filling your kitchen with the scent of freshly baked shortbread.
This year, I wanted to capture a bit of that cosy, magical feeling in a unique way.
My latest recipe combines tart cranberries, bright orange zest, and the nutty crunch of pistachios, creating a vibrant magical Yuletide shortbread treat.
To top it off, I’ve added a video tutorial to guide you through every step.
I hope it brings a little enchantment into your holiday baking.
Comentários