Butterfly Shortbread Biscuits Recipe: Delicate Shortbread Cookies with a Whimsical Twist

Butterfly Biscuits are delicate shortbread cookies shaped to resemble butterflies — crisp at the edges, buttery in the center, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. They combine the richness of traditional Scottish shortbread with a touch of whimsy and artistry, making them a standout treat for tea parties, bridal showers, garden gatherings, or thoughtful homemade gifts.

Shortbread itself has deep roots in Scottish baking tradition, dating back to medieval times when it evolved from “biscuit bread” — a twice-baked roll that was dried into a rusk. Over centuries, bakers replaced yeast with butter, giving rise to the luxurious, crumbly texture we now associate with shortbread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elegant & charming: The butterfly shape turns a simple cookie into something special.
• Melt-in-your-mouth texture: Classic shortbread crispness with buttery richness.
• Simple ingredients: Just butter, sugar, and flour — pantry staples.
• Perfect for any occasion: Lovely for gifting, tea time, or special events.
• Freezer-friendly: Make ahead and bake later with ease.

How to Make Butterfly Shortbread Biscuits

Step 1

Step 1

In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, butter, sugar, vanilla sugar, and one egg. Use an immersion blender to mix until smooth and combined.

In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, butter, sugar, vanilla sugar, and one egg. Use an immersion blender to mix until smooth and combined.

Step 2

Step 2

Gently fold in flour and baking powder with a spatula until a dough forms. Knead briefly by hand until the dough becomes compact.

Gently fold in flour and baking powder with a spatula until a dough forms. Knead briefly by hand until the dough becomes compact.

Step 3

Step 3

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

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

Step 4

Step 4

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.

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.

Step 5

Step 5

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.

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.

Step 6

Step 6

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. Enjoy!

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. Enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Butterfly Biscuits

• The flavor of shortbread comes from the butter — so use high-quality unsalted butter for the best taste and texture.
• Handle the dough gently. Overmixing develops gluten, which can make the biscuits tough instead of crumbly.
• Always chill your shaped biscuits for 10–15 minutes before baking to help them keep their shape.
• Preheat your oven fully and bake on the middle rack for consistent browning.
• Drizzle with melted chocolate, dust with powdered sugar, or decorate with edible flowers for an extra charming presentation.

FAQs

Can I substitute butter with margarine?

Technically yes, but butter gives the best flavor and texture — margarine makes them softer and less rich.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How long do they stay fresh?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Can I add other flavors?

Definitely. Try lemon zest, almond extract, or lavender for a unique twist.

How to Store Butterfly Biscuits

To keep them fresh, store your Butterfly Biscuits in an airtight tin or container in a cool, dry place for up to a week.

For longer storage, place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw completely before serving.