ISO Recipe for Shortbread....

[LD92599]

that doesn't require hand-kneading! Does it exist? I'd prefer something I can just put into the Kitchenaid or food processor.

Laura
mom to William

LKibala @ optonline.net
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[elliput]

I have to jump right on this!

The texture will not be anywhere near correct if you use a mixer or processor. My family (going back generations) traditionally makes shortbread for the holidays, and we never ever ever use a machine. My Mom has made hundreds by hand in past years.

Here is my family recipe-

1 lb butter (do not use anything but real butter)
1 cup sugar
4 1/2 cups of flour, unsifted

Mix butter and sugar, knead in flour. Flour a shortbread mold (if using) and pat in dough, level off. Turn onto cookie sheet, bake until pale gold in a 300-325 degree oven.

Additional hints:
If not using a mold pat or lightly roll out the dough to about a 1/2 inch thick, and bake on cookie sheet as above.

Do not over-knead the dough. It will become tough and once baked will not have the correct flakey texture. Just enough kneading to get an even consistancy is all it takes.

Generally the shortbread will take about 30-40 minutes to cook at the recommended temperature. Keep a careful eye on it to be sure it doesn't overcook.

Shortbread will keep for weeks before going bad or getting stale.

If you come across a round wood mold with a thistle carved in relief, this is a traditional shortbread mold. Grab it! If it has the name J.Lynch carved in the back, my Grandfather made it.

Enjoy your shortbread!

[psophia17]

I don't think a non-mixer recipe exists...the idea is that the flour absorbs the butter while you warm the whole thing with your hands - you won't get the right texture without using your hands.

That said, it's really easy to make, doesn't take any longer than it would to clean up the mixer or processor, and your hands will be really soft for the next day or so (provided you don't go crazy washing the butter off).

[wencit]

I admit I don't know anything about shortbread (unlike Erica, who seems to be the resident expert :) ), but my first thought was Ina Garten's (aka the Barefoot Contessa on the Food Network) shortbread hearts. The following website has several different variations on her basic shortbread recipe, and she doesn't knead the dough:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3684580

I've seen her make the first 3 recipes, and they looked really yummy.

OTOH, Erica's recipe looks delicious and just as simple to make, too!