Shortbread: the butter dough is collected without kneading like bread

Useful to know

Shortbread is a butter-rich dough brought together without the prolonged kneading used for bread. King Arthur’s method aims at a short, tender texture rather than an elastic loaf structure. [1]

Follow the recipe’s proportions, shaping and thickness. A dough that holds together does not necessarily need more working to become smooth. When comparing versions, consider how they are formed and cut, not just the shared name. Butter condition and the amount of handling affect the result.