Friday, January 17, 2014

Simple Shortbread Biscuits and January's Give-Away Apron

Downton Abbey has begun its 4th season and although I was sad that Matthew passed away at the end of season 3, I was also intrigued how Mary would handle his death.  As usual, it hasn't disappointed as the stories of the Crawley family and their trusted servants evolve.

It's one of those unique shows where we can easily get attached to the characters; upstairs and downstairs.  I adore Mrs. Hughes for her compassion, sensibility, and take control manner; she never disappoints me.  Likewise, Mrs. Pattmore is just as likeable in a more hectic way and being a baker, I can so appreciate the modern conveniences I've come to rely on that she did not have.  In honor of her and Mrs. Hughes, I made these Shortbread Biscuits and would gladly love to have tea with them and discuss their views of the culture and customs of England during this time period.


Simple Shortbread Biscuits
1 1/4 cups King Arthur all-purpose flour (plain flour)
1/4 cup + 1T granulated (caster) sugar
pinch of salt
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature and cut into 1/2-inch cubes

Preheat oven to 350F-degrees.  Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, measure the dry ingredients and whisk to combine.  Add the butter and using a pastry blender, cut it into the flour mixture.
When the mixture resembles "sand," use your hand to continue to rub it into the flour and form the dough.
Place dough on a lightly floured board and roll to 1/4-inch thick.
Use a cookie cutter to cut rounds and place on the lined baking sheet.  Sprinkle tops with more granulated sugar, or as I have done, use flavored sugars--Lemon, Chocolate, and Cinnamon/Vanilla.

Bake in the preheated oven for 12 minutes, or until golden brown.  Cool a few minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.

Now, I know Mrs. Pattmore would not have this colorful apron, but considering the harsh weather some of the country has endured, I think she'd approve.
To be eligible, simply comment on one of the posts for this month and you may be the lucky winner.  I can assure you...I ship these aprons anywhere!  Enjoy!
 
 


25 comments:

  1. It's a beauty!

    Shortbread is a favorite here. Downton Abbey is a favorite sometimes. I think that the ladies would have loved being invited to tea.

    Do you also enjoy watching The Victorian Kitchen?

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  2. I love Downton Abbey and look forward to it on Sunday night. I have the first three seasons on DVD. Thanks for another yummy cookie recipe. The apron is so pretty. Deb

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  3. Looks yummy! And I LOVE your new apron!

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  4. I love Downton Abbey and also have the first three seasons on DVD. The Shortbread Biscuits and tea would be delightful. I'm so glad I ordered the flavored sugars from KAF. The apron is gorgeous! Hugs

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  5. I am a Downton Abbey fan too. I have the first three seasons on DVD and have watched them several times. The apron is beautiful, would be a nice gift for anyone who is lucky enough to win it.

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  6. Pretty apron!
    I love Downton Abbey too... another TV favorite I am anxiously awaiting is The Following!

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  7. I love Downton Abbey, too. I have to admit that I already watched all the new episodes of the new season online. I am looking forward to the fall and the new season. What a beautiful apron you will give away again. I hope the last one made it to Germany ok. Wishing you a wonderful weekend!

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  8. Cant wait for Downton Abbey to come back to Australia. Love your work

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  9. Can't wait to try the shortbread biscuit recipe! Love the apron! :)

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  10. Oh Susan...I so enjoyed this post. The apron is just cheery and sweet! And those biscuits! Oh yes ma'am.....pass the butter and the jam! You are a girl after my own heart with your love for Downton.......such an elegant show!!! Every week we can laugh and cry!

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  11. your shortbead biscuits sound yummy to have with a cup of tea.....I'm in! I'll have a lemon and vanilla/cinnamon. Mmmmmmmmmmm!
    stamping sue
    http://stampingsueinconnecticut.blogspot.com/

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  12. You always pick such pretty fabric for your aprons. I am always tempted to bake after reading your blog.

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  13. Hi Susan....The biscuits look lovely (I'd like to scarf one right NOW) and I love the bright, happy apron.

    Please put my name in the pot. Maybe one of these days I'll win. Susan

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  14. I love shortbread and these biscuits look so good! We could have tea and talk Downton Abbey for sure!! Love the fabric of the new apron! It is beautiful!! Hugs, Linda

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  15. I do love Downton Abbey and have already become completely enthralled with Mary's predicament ... I'm betting she will become a strong leader in the running of the estate ... your shortbread biscuits are the perfect side to a nice cup of tea! And this month's apron has such gorgeous flowers! Just what's needed at this bleak time of year!

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  16. I love Downton Abby also--so sad what happened this past week to Anna. Great writing goes into that show for sure. Your shortbread cookies would be lovely for afternoon tea. Stay warm and cozy Susan! xoxo ♥

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  17. I LOVE the fabric you chose for your darling apron!! Please enter me!

    Tanya

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  18. I'll come over for tea! This morning, I'm making my last batch of the year of eggnog scones, using your recipe of course. Changing things up a bit with dried cherries and hazelnuts. I love Downton as well and I was so sad about Matthew. Season 3 was so sad, really. I'm still pulling for poor old Edith! Lv, me

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  19. Hello Susan

    Many thanks for visiting my blog. Many say my swap partner's parcel may still turn up so I can but hope. At least my swap partner got my parcel. I'd feel terrible if she hadn't.

    I am a Downton Abbey fan too but we still haven't received series 3 here on Spanish TV however I am one of the lucky ones as my sister sent me 3 & 4 from the Uk to me for Christmas. Needless to say I went through the lot over Christmas ….it was wonderful :-)

    I'd love to participate in your giveaway that red apron is quite glorious….in fact I'd even say glamourous :-)

    Keep well

    Amanda :-)

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  20. I love the pretty apron this month...so cheery and fun! We are big Downton fans, too and talk about them like they are our neighbors...or family! heehee! Last night's show was so good. Last week? It was hard to watch again! Enjoy your day sweet friend and Sis! Hugs, Diane

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  21. I would serve these cookies/biscuits with many teas I make in my tea pot and serve them on china cups given to me by a lady I called MOM..They would taste divine and the tea would help to warm up our cold old home watching Downton Abbey! The apron is lovely, I adore red in aprons and any clothing, love your blog and it's recipes, the manicotti I am making in a few minutes, it looks so yummy! Thanks for all the neat recipes and blog.happy Chinese new year on jan 31, 2014! ciao mary jane from momanddad00@clear.net!X()

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  22. These cookies are the best....YUMMMMMMMYYY.....

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  23. I just found you today via Sharon Lovejoy......oh apron love! I am enjoying myself on this slow cold day looking through your posts......you have been added to my favorites list :) Helen

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