Shortbread Recipe Mary Berry
Mary Berry, a renowned figure in the world of British baking, is celebrated for her culinary expertise and her ability to create simple yet delightful treats. One of her classic recipes that has stood the test of time is her Shortbread recipe. Shortbread, with its buttery richness and crumbly texture, is a beloved and timeless favorite among bakers and dessert enthusiasts. In this recipe, Mary Berry imparts her wisdom and guidance to help you create the perfect shortbread.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, you’ll find that Mary Berry’s Shortbread Recipe is a delightful and straightforward way to indulge in this classic treat. With just a few ingredients and some easy steps, you can capture the essence of a truly traditional shortbread that will please your taste buds and impress your family and friends. So, let’s embark on this delectable baking journey and create a batch of shortbread that is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home.
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Mary Berry’s Shortbread Recipe
Ingredients
- 250 g 9 oz unsalted butter, softened
- 110 g 4 oz caster sugar
- 360 g 13 oz all-purpose flour
- A pinch of salt optional
- Additional caster sugar for dusting optional, for sprinkling on top
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 160°C/325°F/Gas Mark 3.
- Grease and line a baking tray with baking parchment.
- Sift the flour and semolina into a large bowl.
- Add the butter and sugar and rub together with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
- Press the dough into the prepared baking tray and level the surface with the back of a spoon.
- Prick all over with a fork and sprinkle with the demerara sugar.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the shortbread is golden brown.
- Leave to cool in the tin for a few minutes before cutting into squares or fingers.
Easy Steps To Make Mary Berry’s Shortbread Recipe
Ingredients
- 250g (9 oz) unsalted butter, softened
- 110g (4 oz) caster sugar
- 360g (13 oz) all-purpose flour
- A pinch of salt (optional)
- Additional caster sugar for dusting (optional, for sprinkling on top)
How To Make Mary Berry’s Shortbread Recipe
Mary Berry’s Shortbread Recipe is a classic and beloved treat known for its buttery richness and crumbly texture. To create this delightful treat, start by preheating your oven to 160°C (325°F) or Gas Mark 3, and line a baking tray with parchment paper to ensure the shortbread doesn’t stick. Now, let’s dive into the process.
In a mixing bowl, cream 250g (9 oz) of softened unsalted butter with 110g (4 oz) of caster sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer or do this by hand. This step is essential for creating the tender texture that shortbread is known for.
Gradually add 360g (13 oz) of all-purpose flour to the butter and sugar mixture. If desired, add a pinch of salt for a hint of flavor, but this is optional. Mix the ingredients until they come together to form a smooth dough. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to just combine without overworking it.
Now, it’s time to shape the shortbread. Roll the dough into a ball and then press or roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1.5cm (0.6 inches). You can use a rolling pin for this step. You can also choose to cut out the shortbread into your desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
Place the shortbread shapes onto the prepared baking tray, leaving some space between each one. Use a fork to gently prick the surface of the shortbread, creating a decorative pattern. This not only looks great but helps prevent the shortbread from puffing up during baking.
Bake the shortbread in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until it turns a pale golden color. Keep a close eye on it to prevent over-baking, as shortbread should remain tender and crumbly.
After removing the shortbread from the oven, allow it to cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, you can sprinkle some additional caster sugar on top for a touch of sweetness and added texture.
Once cooled, your Mary Berry-inspired shortbread is ready to be enjoyed. The rich, buttery flavor and delicate crumbly texture make it a perfect companion for a cup of tea or coffee. It’s a classic recipe that’s sure to please your taste buds and impress your guests. So, why not try your hand at making this delightful treat and savor the results of your baking efforts.
Serving Suggestion
When it comes to serving Mary Berry’s Shortbread, simplicity is key. These delectable buttery delights shine best when presented with an elegant, yet uncomplicated approach. A classic serving suggestion is to arrange the shortbread on a dainty platter alongside a freshly brewed pot of tea or coffee. The rich, crumbly texture and subtly sweet flavor of the shortbread make it a perfect companion for your favorite hot beverage.
If you’re hosting a gathering or a special occasion, consider elevating the presentation by placing a few pieces of shortbread on individual saucers or small dessert plates. You can also add a touch of sophistication by dusting the shortbread with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Shortbread Recipe embodies the essence of classic British baking at its finest. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few straightforward steps, you can create a treat that is rich in buttery flavor and delicate in texture. The beauty of this recipe lies in its timelessness and versatility – it’s perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
As you follow the steps and bake this shortbread to a pale golden hue, you’ll find that the results are nothing short of delightful. Each bite carries a hint of nostalgia and a burst of indulgence. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a sweet ending to a special meal, Mary Berry’s Shortbread has the power to make any moment memorable.
The charm of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity but also in its ability to spark creativity. You can personalize your shortbread with unique shapes, flavorings, or accompaniments to suit your preferences and the occasion. It’s a canvas for culinary exploration, and the possibilities are endless.
So, as you embark on your baking journey with Mary Berry’s Shortbread, relish in the joy of creating a classic treat that transcends time and trends. Share it with loved ones, savor it with a smile, and let the crumbly, buttery goodness remind you of the pleasures of homemade baking. This shortbread is a testament to the culinary legacy of Mary Berry and a delightful addition to your own repertoire of cherished recipes.
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