Classic Shortbread Cookies

1. Prepare the Flour Mixture

Mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 2/3 cup of granulated sugar and 3/4 teaspoon of fine salt in the food processor until well combined.

2. Pulse in Cold Butter

Add 2 sticks of cold unsalted butter to the flour mixture in the food processor. Pulse until the mixture resembles fine crumbs and starts to clump.

3. Press Dough into Pan

Transfer the crumbly dough to an 8- or 9-inch square baking pan or a 9-inch pie pan. Press the dough evenly into the pan, preparing it for baking.

4. Prick Dough with Fork

Prick the dough all over with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking.

5. Bake the Shortbread

Bake in a preheated oven at 325 degrees for 35-40 minutes in a 9-inch pan or 45-50 minutes in an 8-inch pan, until the edges are lightly golden.

6. Cool and Cut Shortbread

After baking, transfer the shortbread to a wire rack. Cut into pieces while still warm for clean edges.