I usually don't have much of a sweet tooth, but I do make an exception for shortbread. It is one of my favourite things about the festive season.

Maybe it is something in the marketing:

Anyway, when it comes to finding the best shortbread to put out this Christmas, consumer advocacy group CHOICE has done the hard work, testing 10 shortbread products from brands including IGA's Signature Collection, Mac's, Walkers, Coles Bakery and Woolworths Gold.

“Over the years, CHOICE has rated a variety of Christmas treats, from fruit mince pies to plant-based Christmas roasts. This year, we’ve decided to put shortbread to the test,” says CHOICE Managing Editor, Marg Rafferty. 

“Shortbread is a firm favourite at Christmas. It’s great to have on hand for entertaining throughout the festive season, and also works well as a gift to give your neighbours,” says Ms Rafferty. 

The CHOICE score for shortbread takes into account appearance, flavour, baked quality, and quality of finish. 

The top three shortbreads were:

IGA Signature Decorated Shortbread Cookies
CHOICE score: 77%
Price: $9.50 for 180g pack ($1.58 per biscuit) 

“IGA’s decorated cookies received first place in our testing, with a score of 77%. These cookies have a vanilla flavour and aroma, and aren’t too sweet,” says Rafferty.

Walkers Homebake Shortbread Festive Shapes
CHOICE score: 75%
Price: $5.00 for 175g pack ($0.42 per biscuit) 

“The Walkers biscuits came in second, receiving a score of 75%. These biscuits are nice and buttery and melt in your mouth. They received the highest flavour score in our testing,” says Rafferty. 

IGA Signature Festive Shortbread Cookies
CHOICE score: 70%
Price: $4.50 for 180g pack ($0.50 per biscuit) 

“Another IGA product also scored a place in our top three. The Signature Festive Shortbread Cookies scored 70%, and were praised for their size and thickness,” says Rafferty. 

You can read more about the results of the shortbread test here. 

What is your favourite shortbread biscuit?