Step 1 of 6
Make the shortbread

Preheat the oven

Heat the oven to 190°C, 170°C fan or gas 5.

190°C (374°F) oven
Make the shortbread

Cream the butter and sugar

Beat the softened butter and caster sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Make the shortbread

Make the dough

Mix in the plain flour until the ingredients come together as a smooth paste.

Make the shortbread

Shape the biscuits

Turn the dough onto a work surface and gently roll or press it to about 1cm thick. Cut it into fingers or rounds and arrange them on a baking tray.

Make the shortbread

Chill the shortbread

Sprinkle the biscuits with a little extra caster sugar, then refrigerate them until firm.

Make the shortbread

Bake

Bake until the shortbread is pale golden. Leave it on the tray briefly before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

190°C (374°F) oven