Who doesn’t love the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of a classic shortbread cookie? Panera’s shortbread cookies have a special place in our hearts with their perfect balance of sweetness and crumbly texture. They’re the kind of treat that feels both indulgent and comforting, whether paired with a warm cup of coffee or enjoyed on their own.
Panera Shortbread Cookie Recipe
Let’s dive into recreating the irresistible and buttery Panera shortbread cookies right in our kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and precise steps, we can achieve that signature crumbly texture and sweet perfection.
Ingredients
Here’s what we need to make this classic shortbread delight:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Pro Tip: Always use softened butter for easy mixing and to ensure the cookies have the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix on low speed until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to maintain the tender texture of the cookies.
2. Chill the Dough
- Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps make the dough easier to handle and enhances the flavor.
3. Roll and Cut
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Use a cookie cutter (round or any preferred shape) to cut the dough into even shapes.
4. Bake
- Arrange the cut cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies tender.
5. Cool and Serve
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve as-is or dust lightly with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
Quick Baking Tips
| Step | Duration | Important Note |
|---|---|---|
| Cream Butter & Sugar | 2-3 minutes | Beat until fluffy for the best texture |
| Chill Dough | 1 hour | Essential for easy rolling |
| Bake Cookies | 12-15 minutes | Watch the edges to avoid overbaking |
Ingredients
Creating Panera-style shortbread cookies at home requires a handful of basic ingredients. Each component plays an essential role in delivering that crumbly, buttery perfection we all love. Let’s gather everything we need:
For the Shortbread Dough:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted for a smooth texture
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, pure for the best flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted for even mixing
For Optional Decoration:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar for dusting, if desired
- Melted chocolate or confectioner’s glaze for drizzling
Pro-Tip: Using softened butter ensures a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Avoid melted butter, as it can alter the dough’s consistency.
With these ingredients, we are well-equipped to recreate the classic Panera shortbread cookie experience in our kitchen.
Tools And Equipment
To recreate Panera’s iconic shortbread cookies at home with precision, having the right tools and equipment is crucial. Below is a detailed checklist to ensure every step of the baking process goes smoothly:
Essential Baking Tools:
- Mixing Bowls: We’ll need at least two mixing bowls—one large for creating the dough and one smaller for combining other ingredients.
- Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: A hand-held mixer works fine, but a stand mixer equipped with a paddle attachment makes creaming the butter and sugar effortless.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is vital in baking. Use standard measuring tools for all ingredients, both dry and liquid.
- Silicone Spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Pastry Cutter or Sharp Knife: To cut out your cookie shapes if you’re not using cookie cutters.
- Cookie Cutters: If we want the authentic Panera round or custom shapes, having cookie cutters is ideal. Go for a 2-to-3 inch diameter for professional-looking results.
- Rolling Pin: To roll out the chilled dough evenly to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Ensures cookies don’t stick to the baking sheet while also allowing for even baking.
- Baking Sheets: Heavy-duty, non-stick baking sheets are best to distribute heat evenly, preventing overbaked edges.
- Cooling Rack: Necessary for allowing cookies to cool completely without becoming soggy underneath.
Optional Equipment For Finishing:
- Wire Sifter: For dusting powdered sugar lightly over the cookies for a professional finish.
- Decorating Bags or Squeeze Bottles: If drizzling melted chocolate or glaze for added flair.
- Offset Spatula: Handy for spreading toppings smoothly without damaging the cookie surface.
Here’s a quick reference table of all tools for convenience:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | For combining the dough and ingredients. |
| Electric or Stand Mixer | To cream butter and sugar consistently. |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Ensures precise measurements. |
| Silicone Spatula | Scraping the sides of bowls for consistency. |
| Rolling Pin | Rolling out cookie dough evenly. |
| Cookie Cutters | For creating uniform cookie shapes. |
| Baking Sheets | Even heat distribution to bake perfectly. |
| Parchment Paper/Baking Mat | Prevents sticking and promotes even baking. |
| Cooling Rack | Cools cookies without texture disruptions. |
Investing in quality tools ensures our Panera shortbread cookies turn out perfectly every single time. Simple yet essential equipment like a cooling rack and parchment paper can make all the difference in achieving that perfect golden hue, crumbly texture, and melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
Directions
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to recreate Panera’s shortbread cookie magic in our home kitchens. Follow these instructions carefully to achieve the perfect buttery, crumbly texture that these cookies are known for.
Prep
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Gather all necessary tools, including a stand mixer (or handheld electric mixer), measuring cups and spoons, and a rolling pin. Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature—this step is essential for the dough’s texture.
Prepare The Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter (softened) and ½ cup of powdered sugar using medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, typically about 2–3 minutes.
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to the butter mixture, then mix until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing, as this could make the cookies less tender.
Chill The Dough
- Shape the dough into a flat disk, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for 30–45 minutes. Chilling ensures the dough is firm and easier to roll out without becoming sticky.
- If you’re planning to cut intricate shapes, consider chilling your rolling pin alongside the dough for better control over the form.
Shape And Bake The Cookies
- Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to shape the dough into your desired designs.
- Transfer the shaped cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about ½ inch apart.
- For an optional decorative touch, lightly dust the tops with granulated sugar for extra sparkle or use a fork to create subtle patterns.
- Bake the cookies on the middle rack of the preheated oven for 9–12 minutes, or until the edges are just barely turning golden. Avoid overbaking to maintain the soft, crumbly texture.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack until completely cool.
Here’s a quick reference table for critical timings and measurements:
| Step | Timing or Specifics |
|---|---|
| Mixing Dough Ingredients | 2–3 minutes on medium speed |
| Dough Chilling | 30–45 minutes in the refrigerator |
| Rolling Dough | ¼-inch thickness |
| Baking Time | 9–12 minutes, edges just golden |
Make-Ahead Instructions
Creating Panera-style shortbread cookies ahead of time is perfect for busy schedules or holiday preparations. These cookies store beautifully, allowing us to enjoy the comforting, crumbly texture any time with minimal effort. Follow these steps to prepare your dough or cookies in advance:
1. Prepare the Dough in Advance
We can make the dough ahead, store it, and bake cookies fresh as needed.
- Refrigeration: After preparing the dough, shape it into a flat disk, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This chilling period also enhances the texture and flavor of shortbread cookies.
- Freezing: To store for longer, place the wrapped dough in an airtight freezer bag or container. Label it with the date, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight before rolling out and cutting shapes.
2. Freeze Pre-Shaped Cookies
If we want even less prep on baking day, the cookies can be shaped and frozen before baking:
- Roll out the dough and cut it into desired shapes. Arrange the cookie shapes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch. Freeze until firm (about 1 hour).
- Once frozen, transfer the shapes to an airtight freezer bag or container. Store for up to 2 months.
- Bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.
3. Store Baked Cookies
Fully baked cookies also store well, making them a great option for gifting or quick snacks.
- Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, ensuring they remain fresh and crumbly.
- For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies. Place them in layers separated by parchment paper in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Recommended Timing and Storage Reference
| Step | Mode | Storage Duration | Thawing/Baking Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dough refrigeration | Fridge | Up to 3 days | Roll and bake straight from the fridge. |
| Dough freezing | Freezer | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. |
| Pre-shaped cookie freezing | Freezer | Up to 2 months | Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes. |
| Baked cookies—room temp | Airtight container | Up to 1 week | Ready to eat. |
| Baked cookies—frozen | Freezer | Up to 2 months | Thaw at room temperature before serving. |
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Always label stored dough or cookies with preparation dates to track freshness.
- Use high-quality plastic wrap or airtight containers to prevent freezer burn and maintain the buttery flavor.
- Rest chilled or thawed dough at room temperature for 10–15 minutes if it becomes too firm to roll effortlessly.
Tips For Perfect Shortbread Cookies
Creating Panera-style shortbread cookies at home calls for precision, the right techniques, and a few insider secrets. Here are our top tips to help you achieve buttery, crumbly, and perfectly tender shortbread cookies every single time:
1. Use High-Quality Ingredients
- Unsalted Butter: Always opt for high-quality, unsalted butter to control the saltiness and enhance the buttery flavor. Softened butter (not melted) is essential for the dough consistency.
- Vanilla Extract: A good-quality pure vanilla extract intensifies the flavor of the cookies. Avoid artificial vanilla for the best results.
- Powdered Sugar: Using powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar ensures a delicate, fine texture in your cookies.
2. Chill The Dough Properly
Chilling is non-negotiable when it comes to handling shortbread dough. It helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll and cut into shapes. Without chilling, the dough might be too soft, leading to uneven cookies. Refrigerate the dough for 30–45 minutes before rolling it out.
Pro Tip: If the dough has been chilled for longer than an hour and feels too firm, let it rest at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before rolling.
3. Roll Out With Care
Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface or between two sheets of parchment paper. Aim for a uniform thickness of about 1/4 inch to ensure even baking. Avoid rolling too thin, as this can result in dry cookies.
| Key Rolling Tips | Details |
|---|---|
| Dust rolling pin or surface | Prevent dough from sticking or tearing. |
| Use parchment paper | Provides smoother rolling and easy transfer. |
| Check thickness consistently | Ensure even baking by aiming for 1/4 inch. |
4. Monitor Baking Time
Shortbread cookies can go from golden perfection to overbaked in seconds. Keep a close eye on them while baking. We recommend baking the cookies at 350°F (175°C) for 9–12 minutes, just until the edges turn golden.
“Remember, shortbread should be tender, not overly browned. Less is more when it comes to baking time!”
5. Avoid Overmixing
When preparing the dough, overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix just until the dough comes together into a soft and crumbly texture.
6. Decorate Thoughtfully
While traditional shortbread relies on its simple buttery flavor, adding a finishing touch can elevate your cookies:
- Dust with granulated or powdered sugar after baking.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate or a vanilla glaze for a decorative twist.
- Use cookie cutters for festive and fun shapes.
7. Store Correctly
To retain their fresh, crumbly texture, store cooled cookies in an airtight container. Layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking. Properly stored cookies can last for up to 2 weeks at room temperature.
| Storage Instructions | Details |
|---|---|
| Airtight container | Keeps cookies fresh and prevents staleness. |
| Separation layers | Use parchment or wax paper. |
| Storage duration | Best within 2 weeks, can freeze longer. |
8. Test One Batch First
If you are new to baking shortbread, try baking just a couple of cookies as a test batch. It allows you to adjust the dough consistency, oven temperature, or baking time before committing to the full batch.
Serving Suggestions
Serving Panera-inspired shortbread cookies can be a delightful opportunity to highlight their buttery, crumbly texture and subtle sweetness. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate their presentation, we have several ideas to make these cookies even more special.
1. Pair with Warm Beverages
These classic shortbread cookies taste divine when paired with a hot drink:
- Coffee: The rich, aromatic notes of coffee beautifully complement the cookies’ buttery flavor.
- Hot Chocolate: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate to your cookies for a luxurious pairing.
- Tea: A warm cup of chai, Earl Grey, or green tea pairs well with the gentle sweetness of the cookies.
2. Create a Dessert Tray
Assemble an elegant dessert tray by pairing these cookies with:
- Chocolate-dipped strawberries
- Mini macarons
- Candied nuts
Arrange them on a decorative platter for gatherings or gifting.
3. Decorate for Celebrations
Customize these cookies to suit any occasion. Use:
- Royal icing to draw intricate designs.
- Colorful sprinkles for themed events.
- Edible metallic dust for a touch of elegance.
4. Serve as Base for Ice Cream Sandwiches
For a fun and indulgent dessert, transform these cookies into ice cream sandwiches:
- Place a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two shortbread cookies.
- Roll the edges in mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, or crushed nuts for added texture.
- Freeze for 10–15 minutes to set.
5. Lightly Dust with Powdered Sugar
Enhance their presentation by adding a light sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving. This simple touch adds a delicate sweetness and visual allure, mimicking the café-quality charm of Panera’s original cookies.
Quick Reference Table for Pairing Ideas
| Occasion | Serving Suggestion | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Morning Coffee Break | Pair with coffee or tea | Balances buttery texture with bold beverages |
| Holiday Celebration | Decorate with icing or sprinkles | Customizable for any festive theme |
| Summer Picnic | Prepare ice cream sandwiches | Offers a refreshing dessert option |
| Afternoon Tea Party | Present on a dessert tray with other treats | Compliments an elegant tea setup |
| Casual Snack | Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze | Simple yet visually appealing |
These suggestions bring out the versatility of these buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies. Whether keeping it low-key or making them the centerpiece of an event, these serving ideas ensure everyone enjoys them to the fullest.
Conclusion
Recreating Panera’s shortbread cookies at home is a rewarding experience that brings bakery-quality treats right to our kitchens. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, we can achieve that buttery, crumbly texture and delicate sweetness we all love.
Whether we’re baking for a cozy afternoon snack or preparing for a special occasion, these cookies are sure to impress. Let’s grab our aprons, follow the steps, and enjoy the simple joy of homemade shortbread cookies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed to make Panera’s shortbread cookies?
You’ll need unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and all-purpose flour. Optional decorations include granulated sugar, melted chocolate, or confectioner’s glaze.
How do I achieve a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture?
Use softened butter, not melted butter. Softened butter ensures a perfect crumbly and tender texture.
How long should the dough chill before rolling?
Chill the dough for 30–45 minutes for easier handling and to prevent sticking during rolling.
What is the ideal baking time and temperature?
Bake the cookies at 350°F (175°C) for 9–12 minutes, or until the edges turn slightly golden.
Can the dough be made ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months for make-ahead convenience.
How should baked cookies be stored?
Store baked cookies in an airtight container, layering them with parchment paper to maintain freshness.
What tools are essential for baking shortbread cookies?
Key tools include mixing bowls, an electric or stand mixer, measuring cups and spoons, a rolling pin, cookie cutters, parchment paper, baking sheets, and a cooling rack.
Are there any tips for decorating shortbread cookies?
Decorate with a drizzle of melted chocolate, dust with powdered sugar, or customize designs for special occasions using decorating bags.
Can I freeze pre-shaped cookies before baking?
Yes, shape the cookies and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container for easy baking later.
What are some serving suggestions for shortbread cookies?
Pair them with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. Create dessert trays, transform them into ice cream sandwiches, or lightly dust with powdered sugar for visual appeal.