India, Jan. 6 -- While many of us would prefer we were the kind of people who were already up and running in early January, for most, routines right now are still in the flexible zone as we ease into 2026 - which also makes this the last gentle stretch to snack without overthinking. These shortbread cookies (in honour of today being National Shortbread Day) fit perfectly beside your morning coffee and even your evening chai.

If you're up for easing yourself into the year, one buttery bite at a time, follow the recipe below.

Ingredients: Unsalted butter at room temperature - 10tbsps, confectioners' sugar - 1/2 cup, pure vanilla extract - 1/2tsp, all-purpose flour - 1.5 cups, kosher salt - 1/2tsp

Method: Cream the butter and vanilla in a...