Scottish Shortbread—no butter!🙂

You can substitute applesauce for butter in a Scottish shortbread recipe, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different. Applesauce will make the shortbread softer and less rich than traditional butter. Here’s a modified recipe:

Applesauce Scottish Shortbread

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup cornstarch (optional, for a lighter texture)

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

• 1/2 cup applesauce (unsweetened)

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, powdered sugar, and salt.

3. Add the applesauce and vanilla extract (if using). Mix until combined. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky.

4. Press the dough into a greased or parchment-lined baking pan (about 8-inch square or round).

5. Use a fork to prick the surface of the dough to create a traditional shortbread pattern.

6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the edges are golden.

7. Allow the shortbread to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

This version will be more cake-like than traditional shortbread, but still delicious!