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Genuine Italian Shortbread Cookies – Bake Like a Pro

Authentic Italian Shortbread Cookies

These melt-in-your-mouth Italian shortbread cookies, known as Biscotti di Pasta Frolla, are buttery, delicate, and slightly crisp. Perfect with tea or coffee, they have a light sweetness and a rich, crumbly texture that makes them absolutely irresistible!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra flavor)
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar (for sprinkling, optional)

Instructions

  • Prepare the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
  • Add the cold cubed butter and rub it into the dry ingredients using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Stir in the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using). Mix until the dough just comes together—avoid overworking it.
  • Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Roll out the dough to about ¼-inch (6mm) thick and cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
  • Place the cookies on the baking sheet, sprinkle with granulated sugar if desired, and bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
  • Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Butter Matters: Use cold butter and avoid overworking the dough to keep the cookies tender and flaky.
  • Chilling is Key: Refrigerating the dough helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances the buttery texture.
  • Flavor Variations: Try adding almond extract (½ teaspoon) for a nutty flavor or replace lemon zest with orange zest for a citrusy twist.
  • Chocolate Drizzle: Dip or drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

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