Sometimes the simplest recipes are the most delightful, and these 3-Ingredient Shortbread Cookies are proof of that! With just butter, sugar, and flour, you can create buttery, crumbly cookies that melt in your mouth. Perfect for tea-time snacks, holiday treats, or sharing with loved ones, this recipe is quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar (plus extra for sprinkling)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Tools You’ll Need:
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or hand mixer
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters (optional)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Instructions:
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. You can use a wooden spoon, hand mixer, or stand mixer for this step. This ensures the sugar is well incorporated, giving the cookies a perfect texture.
Step 2: Add the Flour
Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture and mix until a soft dough forms. The dough should come together easily and not be sticky. If the dough feels too dry, you can add 1-2 teaspoons of milk.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, or roll the dough into a log and slice into rounds about ¼-inch thick. Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Optional: Sprinkle the cookies with granulated sugar while they’re still warm for a sparkly finish. Pair with tea, coffee, or milk for a cozy treat.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Sugar: Use powdered sugar instead of granulated for a smoother, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Flour: Replace ¼ cup of the flour with cornstarch for a more delicate crumb.
- Toppings: Sprinkle cinnamon sugar, dip in melted chocolate, or drizzle with glaze for extra flavor.
- Shapes: Use a fork to press a criss-cross pattern or roll into balls and flatten slightly for a rustic look.
- Flavor Add-Ons: Mix in a teaspoon of vanilla extract, almond extract, or lemon zest to elevate the taste.
Pro Tips for Perfect Shortbread Cookies:
- Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for a smooth dough. If it’s too hard, let it sit out for 30 minutes.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until it comes together. Overmixing can result in tough cookies.
- Uniform Thickness: Roll the dough evenly to ensure consistent baking. Use spacers on your rolling pin if needed.
- Salt Balance: If using unsalted butter, add a tiny pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Make-Ahead Tips:
- Freeze the Dough: Roll the dough into a log, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Slice and bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
- Store Baked Cookies: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Leftovers and Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
- Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple Ingredients: No fancy pantry items required.
- Quick Preparation: Ready to enjoy in just 30 minutes.
- Customizable: Add flavors or toppings to suit your taste.
- Kid-Friendly: Easy to make with children, thanks to the forgiving dough.
Conclusion:
These 3-Ingredient Shortbread Cookies are a timeless treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you keep them simple or dress them up with a touch of sugar or chocolate, they’re bound to become a favorite. Try this recipe today and share your variations in the comments—did you stick to the classic or add your own twist? 🍪