Delicate Butterfly Shortbread Biscuits

Butterfly Biscuits are delicious confections that blend the buttery richness of shortbread with the whimsical charm of nature. These delicate cookies, shaped like butterflies, can be enjoyed as a tea time treat or given to someone special as a gift. While they’re easy to make, these petite treats requires a delicate touch and precise measurements. You start with an easy shortbread dough, made primarily of butter, sugar, and flour. Once the dough is prepared, it’s rolled out to the desired thickness before being shaped into intricate butterfly shapes… no fancy cutters needed. The texture is crumbly yet satisfying, with a melt-in-the-mouth quality that is characteristic of shortbread. They make for a charming addition to garden parties, bridal showers, or any occasion that calls for a touch of elegance.

What are Butterfly Biscuits?

Butterfly Biscuits are exquisite shortbread cookies, delicately shaped to resemble butterflies. Shortbread itself, the foundation of these biscuits, has deep Scottish roots, dating back centuries. Shortbread is believed to have emerged from medieval "biscuit bread." This was a twice-baked, enriched bread roll that was dried out into a rusk. Over time, butter replaced yeast, leading to the creation of shortbread as we know it.  Due to the high butter content, shortbread was considered a luxury item and typically reserved for special occasions like weddings, Christmas, and New Year.

Whether dipped in tea or enjoyed on their own, Butterfly Biscuits offer a moment of pure indulgence. Their delicate nature and intricate shape make them a conversation starter and a delicious treat for both the eyes and the palate.

Tips

• Ensure your butter is at the perfect room temperature; soft but not melted. Overly soft butter can affect the texture of your shortbread.
• Use high-quality ingredients. Good butter and flour are essential for that signature shortbread crumbliness.
• Avoid overworking the dough. Excessive kneading can develop gluten, resulting in tough biscuits.
• Chill the dough thoroughly before rolling. This prevents it from sticking and ensures clean cuts.
• Experiment with different sizes. From tiny to large, the size of your butterfly biscuits is up to you.
• Preheat your oven accurately. This ensures even baking and prevents burning. Bake until lightly golden. Over baking will result in dry biscuits.

Can I Substitute Butter with Margarine?

While you can, butter provides the best flavor and texture for shortbread.

Can I Freeze the Dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough for later use. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap before storing.

Can I Make These Biscuits Gluten-Free?

Use gluten-free flour and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

How Long Do These Biscuits Stay Fresh?

Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Can I Add Flavorings to The Dough?

Yes, you can add extracts like almond or lemon for flavor.

More Biscuits You Need to Try for Your Tea Time!

Sicilian Glazed Biscuits

Vanilla Biscuits

Cottage Cheese Biscuits

Rice Flour Biscuits

Figs Biscuits

How to Store Butterfly Biscuits

Store the container in a cool, dry place, for up to a week.

For longer storage, you can freeze the biscuits. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Allow them to thaw completely at room temperature before serving.

While freezing is an option, the texture might change slightly after thawing. For the best flavor and texture, it's recommended to enjoy Butterfly Biscuits within a week of baking.

How To Make Butterfly Biscuits

In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, butter, sugar, vanilla sugar, and one egg.

Use an immersion blender to mix until smooth and combined.

Gently fold in flour and baking powder with a spatula until a dough forms.

Knead briefly by hand until the dough becomes compact.

Divide the dough in half.

Roll out each half into a roughly rectangular shape and trim the edges.

Cut the dough into long strips. Then, roll each strip until almost near its end.

Take two strips and join them in the middle using wooden sticks or similar objects.

When the two pieces are joined firmly together, form the butterfly shape by slightly folding out the leftover pieces of the strips that are still protruding at the edges.

Place the butterfly shapes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar.

Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (360°F) for 30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve the cooled butterfly biscuits on a serving platter.