African Culinary Heritage

Flaky Ghanaian Shortbread

"This recipe provides the secret to making the best flaky ..."

April 14, 2026 By African Recipes Kitchen
Flaky Ghanaian Shortbread - Authentic African Cuisine

🍲 Ghanaian Woodside Shortbread 🍪

Indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of Ghanaian Woodside Shortbread, a delightful treat perfect for afternoon snacking or special occasions. This recipe is not only easy to make but also a great opportunity for budding entrepreneurs!

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🌍 What Is Ghanaian Woodside Shortbread?

Ghanaian Woodside Shortbread is a beloved snack in Ghana, often enjoyed in the afternoons with tea or coffee. Its crumbly texture and rich flavor make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This shortbread is versatile enough to be served at gatherings or sold as a homemade treat.

🧾 Ingredients

**Base:**

- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter or margarine

- ¼ cup (30g) powdered sugar

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour

- ¼ cup (30g) corn starch

- ¼ cup (30g) milk powder

**Optional:**

- A sprinkle of cold water (if needed)

- Parchment paper or aluminum foil for baking

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Prepare the Mixture:**

- In a clean bowl, combine the butter (or margarine) and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy.

2. **Add Flavor:**

- Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.

3. **Incorporate Dry Ingredients:**

- Gradually add the all-purpose flour, corn starch, and milk powder to the mixture.

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- If desired, sift the flour for a smoother texture (this step is optional).

4. **Knead the Dough:**

- Knead the dough gently until it forms a cohesive ball. If the dough is too soft, sprinkle in a little cold water to help it hold together.

5. **Preheat the Oven:**

- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).

6. **Shape the Shortbread:**

- Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about ½ inch thick.

- Cut into desired shapes or squares. For a traditional touch, use a fork to create holes on top.

7. **Prepare for Baking:**

- Line a baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place the cut shortbread pieces onto the pan.

8. **Bake:**

- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until lightly golden.

9. **Cool and Enjoy:**

- Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool before serving.

🍽️ How to Serve

Serve the Ghanaian Woodside Shortbread warm or at room temperature, alongside a cup of tea or coffee. These treats are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a personal snack.

💡 Pro Tips

- For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the dough.

- Experiment with different flavors by substituting vanilla extract with almond or coconut extract.

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- If you plan to sell these shortbreads, consider making them slightly larger for a more appealing presentation.

🔥 Why You’ll Love This

This recipe for Ghanaian Woodside Shortbread is not only simple and quick to prepare, but it also delivers a deliciously rich and buttery flavor that will transport you straight to Ghana. Perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or even as a small business venture, this shortbread is sure to impress everyone who tries it!