Meta Description: Craving those melt-in-your-mouth Panera shortbread cookies? This recipe perfectly recreates their buttery, delicate flavor. Get the simple, step-by-step instructions now! Learn how to make the best homemade shortbread cookies inspired by Panera's classic recipe. Perfect for any occasion!
The Quest for the Perfect Panera Shortbread Copycat
Panera Bread's shortbread cookies are legendary. Their buttery crumbly texture and delicate sweetness are unmatched. But let's be honest, frequent Panera trips can get expensive. That's why I embarked on a mission: to recreate that perfect shortbread at home. After much experimentation, I've perfected a recipe that delivers on all the deliciousness.
Ingredients for Panera-Style Shortbread Cookies
This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients. You likely already have most of them in your pantry!
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened (very important for texture!)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
Pro Tip: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness perfectly. Softened butter is key for easy mixing and a tender crumb.
Instructions: Baking Panera Copycat Shortbread
Let’s get baking! These cookies are surprisingly easy to make.
Step 1: Cream Together Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a tender crumb. Use an electric mixer for best results – it’ll save you time and effort.
Step 2: Add Vanilla Extract
Stir in the vanilla extract. The vanilla adds a delightful depth of flavor.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; overmixing develops the gluten and results in tougher cookies.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
This step is ESSENTIAL. Form the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough firms it up, preventing spreading during baking and resulting in beautifully shaped cookies.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to create your desired shapes, or simply cut the dough into squares or rectangles.
Place the cookies onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy!
Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows them to set and prevents breakage.
Now, enjoy your homemade Panera-style shortbread cookies!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use salted butter?
A: While you can use salted butter, reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe. The salt content in salted butter varies.
Q: How can I store leftover cookies?
A: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I add other flavors?
A: Absolutely! Try adding ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or lemon zest to the dough for a unique twist.
Tips for Panera-Perfect Shortbread
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing leads to tough cookies.
- Chill the dough thoroughly: This prevents spreading and ensures perfectly shaped cookies.
- Use high-quality butter: The butter is the star of this show! Good butter makes a big difference in flavor and texture.
- Let the cookies cool completely: This helps them set and prevents breakage.
This recipe delivers the same delicious buttery crumbly texture as Panera’s shortbread cookies. It's a simple yet rewarding baking experience. Enjoy! Remember to share your baking adventures with me - I’d love to see your creations!