White Pepper Shortbread

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. 2
   In a mixer with a paddle attachment, cream the butter until fluffy.
3. 3
   Add 1/2 cup of the sugar and cream together until light and fluffy.
4. 4
   Add the flour, cornstarch, and pepper, and mix just until combined.
5. 5
   On a well-floured surface, roll out the dough to about 3/4-inch thickness.
6. 6
   Transfer it to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet (preferably one with sides) and continue rolling out the dough, pushing out towards the edges of the pan, to 1/4-inch thickness.
7. 7
   Prick the dough all over with a fork, then sprinkle with 1 tablespoon sugar.
8. 8
   Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, rotating the pan after 10 minutes.
9. 9
   Shake the pan as you rotate it, to settle the dough.
10. 10
    When the surface is golden, remove from the oven and sprinkle immediately with the remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar.
11. 11
    Cut immediately into bars with a sharp knife or pizza cutter and let cool in the pan.
12. 12
    Store in an airtight container.