Chocolate Chip and Toffee Shortbread Cookies

 

These shortbread cookies are a cozy combination of rich butter, delicate crumb, and two irresistible mix-ins. The toffee bits add caramel crunch while mini chocolate chips melt into little pools of sweetness. They are quick to assemble and reward you with a buttery bite that feels both classic and a little decadent. If you love simple cookies with a special twist, these are a perfect treat to bake for company or to savor with an afternoon tea. For another shortbread spin, check out this festive shortbread recipe for inspiration.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This recipe is friendly to bakers of all levels because the dough is forgiving and the technique is straightforward. The short ingredient list makes it easy to shop ahead, and the chilling step is not required, so you can bake the same day you mix. The texture is the highlight here a delicate snap gives way to a melt-in-your-mouth center thanks to the cornstarch and high butter ratio. Toffee bits bring bursts of smoky-sweet caramel and pair beautifully with the mini chocolate chips for contrast in each bite. These cookies are also great for gifting; package them in a simple box and they feel handmade and luxe. If you enjoy chewy chocolate treats as well, you might like the chewy twist found in chocolate chip coconut macaroons.

Flavor and Texture

Expect a buttery, tender shortbread with a fine, sandy crumb that almost dissolves on your tongue. Cornstarch softens the structure so the cookies are delicate rather than cakey. The toffee bits add concentrated caramel flavor and a satisfying crunch that cuts through the richness. Mini chocolate chips give small pockets of chocolate without overwhelming the buttery shortbread base. Overall the balance is subtle, allowing the buttery shortbread to shine while playful textures and sweet notes keep each bite interesting.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup toffee bits
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.
6. Stir in the toffee bits and mini chocolate chips.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
8. Flatten each cookie slightly with the palm of your hand.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Best Results

Use room-temperature butter so it creams easily with the powdered sugar, creating a lighter texture. Measure flour by spooning it into the cup and leveling it off to avoid dense cookies. If you like a crisper edge, give the cookies an extra minute or two in the oven but watch closely to prevent overbrowning. For bigger chunks of toffee, press a few extra bits onto the tops of the cookies before baking so they melt into decorative caramel pockets. If your dough seems soft, chill it briefly for 10 to 15 minutes to make scooping easier.

Storage and Make Ahead

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days for best flavor and texture. To freeze, arrange in a single layer on a tray, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving, or warm briefly in a low oven to refresh that just-baked aroma. You can also freeze portioned dough balls and bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Final Thought

These chocolate chip and toffee shortbread cookies feel special without being fussy a perfect balance of buttery tenderness and sweet crunch. They bake up quickly and make great gifts, party bites, or comfort snacks. Keep the dough simple, add quality toffee and chocolate, and you’ll have bakery-worthy cookies from your home oven.

FAQ

Conclusion

For a slightly different take on this beloved combination and a trusted reference, see the recipe at Chocolate Chip and Toffee Shortbread Cookies | The Kitchn.

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