3 Ingredient Shortbread Cookies
Who doesn’t love a recipe that’s both incredibly easy to make and delightfully delicious? These 3-Ingredient Shortbread Cookies are buttery, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Whether you’re preparing a quick treat or need a festive cookie for the holidays, this recipe comes together with just a few pantry staples and minimal effort. Let’s dive in!
THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, I MAY EARN A COMMISSION. PLEASE SEE MY Full Disclosure Policy FOR DETAILS. AS AN AMAZON ASSOCIATE I EARN FROM QUALIFYING PURCHASES.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
With only butter, powdered sugar, and flour, these 3 ingredient shortbread cookies prove that simplicity can be extraordinary. They’re delicate, with a slight crispness, and are perfect for pairing with a cup of tea or coffee. Their versatility shines when you shape them into rounds or festive holiday designs like stars and bells.
These cookies not only taste amazing but also look beautiful with a light dusting of powdered sugar. The best part? They’re ready in just 30 minutes, start to finish!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup salted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling & dusting)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
That’s it! No eggs, no leavening agents—just three simple ingredients.
How to Make 3 Ingredient Shortbread Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Start by creaming the softened butter with the powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This step ensures the cookies have a tender, buttery texture.
Step 2: Incorporate the Flour
Slowly add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should come together easily without being sticky.
Step 3: Roll and Shape
Roll the dough out on surface dusted with powdered sugar to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to create rounds or get creative with festive shapes for the holidays.
Step 4: Bake
Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden.
Step 5: Cool and Dust
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before dusting them with additional powdered sugar. This final touch adds a snowy, elegant finish.
Storage Tips
These cookies store beautifully, making them ideal for gifting or preparing ahead of time:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer-Friendly: The cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving or dusting with powdered sugar.
Serving Suggestions
This recipe yields about 30 – 3 ingredient shortbread cookies, depending on the size and shape of your cutters. They pair wonderfully with warm beverages like hot cocoa or mulled cider, making them perfect for cozy evenings or holiday gatherings.
Make These Cookies Your Own
These cookies are a blank canvas for creativity! Consider:
- Adding Flavor: Mix in vanilla extract, almond extract, or citrus zest for an extra burst of flavor.
- Decorating: Use colorful icing or sprinkles to give them a festive touch.
Ready to Bake?
These 3-ingredient shortbread cookies are proof that a simple recipe can create something extraordinary. Their buttery texture and versatility make them a staple for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and start baking—your kitchen will soon be filled with the irresistible aroma of fresh shortbread!
Let me know in the comments how you shaped your cookies or if you added any fun flavors. I’d love to hear how you made this recipe your own!
3 Ingredient Shortbread Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup salted butter softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar plus more for dusting
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl cream the softened butter with the powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Slowly add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should come together easily without being sticky.
- Roll the dough using powdered sugar to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to create rounds or festive shapes for the holidays.
- Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before dusting them with additional powdered sugar.