National Shortbread Day

A joyful woman in a cozy sweater, surrounded by a classic tea set and a variety of beautiful shortbread cookies.. — National shortbread day illustration

Welcome to National Shortbread Day, a delightful celebration where we pay homage to those crumbly, buttery goodies that make our taste buds dance with joy. Whether you prefer your shortbread plain and simple or dressed up with decadent toppings, this day is all about indulging in this sweet treat. So grab a cup of tea and a plate of shortbread, and let's dig into the delicious history of National Shortbread Day!

When is Shortbread Day?

It's national shortbread day on the 6th January.

A Crumbly Journey Through Time

Shortbread has been tantalizing taste buds for centuries, and its origins can be traced back to medieval times in Scotland. Back then, shortbread was a luxury that only the wealthy could afford, as the main ingredients—butter, sugar, and flour—were precious commodities. It was often reserved for special occasions like weddings and holidays.

Over time, shortbread became more accessible to the masses, and its popularity spread like wildfire. Its simplicity and rich flavor made it a beloved treat for people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea, as a base for desserts, or on its own, shortbread has become a staple in many households around the world.

The Perfect Recipe

There are countless variations of shortbread recipes, but the classic version typically consists of just three ingredients: butter, sugar, and flour. The key to achieving that perfect crumbly texture lies in the ratio of these three ingredients. Some add a pinch of salt or a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor, while others get creative with additional ingredients like chocolate chips or dried fruit.

One popular debate among shortbread enthusiasts is whether to use salted or unsalted butter. Both have their merits, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Salted butter adds a subtle salty note to the sweet shortbread, while unsalted butter allows the other flavors to shine.

A Day of Celebration

On National Shortbread Day, people come together to celebrate this beloved treat in all its crumbly glory. From baking competitions to sharing recipes, there are countless ways to join in on the festivities. So gather your loved ones, put on your apron, and let the sweet aroma of freshly baked shortbread fill your home.

History behind the term 'Shortbread'

1736

The Origin of Shortbread

Shortbread has its origins in Scotland and can be traced back to the early 18th century. It was initially known as 'biscuit bread' as it was made from leftover bread dough that was dried out in low ovens until it became hard and dry. This biscuit bread was often broken into small pieces and enjoyed as a treat.

1796

Introduction of Shortbread in Recipe Books

The term 'shortbread' first appeared in recipe books in 1796. The Scottish recipe book called 'The Cook and Housewife's Manual' by Margaret Dods included a recipe for shortbread. The recipe called for simple ingredients like butter, sugar, and flour, which were kneaded together to form a rich, crumbly texture.

1851

Rise in Popularity

During the mid-19th century, shortbread gained popularity across Scotland and beyond. It became a favorite treat during festive occasions, such as Christmas and Hogmanay (Scottish New Year's Eve). The buttery and melt-in-your-mouth texture of shortbread made it a delightful indulgence.

1905

Commercial Production

In 1905, commercial production of shortbread began. Established Scottish companies, like Walkers Shortbread and Macphie of Glenbervie, started manufacturing shortbread on a larger scale. This allowed for wide distribution and availability of this delectable biscuit beyond Scotland's borders.

Present Day

International Fame

Today, shortbread has gained international fame and is enjoyed by people all around the world. It has become synonymous with Scottish cuisine and is often associated with traditional Scottish culture. Shortbread is appreciated for its crumbly texture, buttery flavor, and its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort.

Did you know?

Did you know that the largest shortbread ever made weighed a whopping 5,000 pounds? It was created in Scotland in 1989 and measured over 100 feet long. That's a whole lot of buttery goodness!