Tom Clark's Irish Shortbread

Tom Clark is the SVP in charge of operations for Zions Bank in Utah. He melted my heart (and palate) when he brought me his home-made shortbread, getting ready for St. Patrick's Day. I asked his permission to share the recipe, and here it is:

• 3 sticks (1 1/2 cups) butter
• 1/2 cup sugar

Cream the butter and sugar, then add

• 4 cups flour

Mix well. You might need to add 2-3 tbsp. butter to reach a good, spreadable consistency.

Bake at 350F 15-16 minutes if you're at a high altitude, as much as 20 minutes at sea level. Yields 25 cookies.

This not just simple -- it's FANTASTIC!