Easy Shortbread Cookies

Try making this quick recipe for Easy Shortbread Cookies that only requires butter, powdered sugar, and all-purpose flour to make a crispy and delicious cookie.

If you're craving more simple to make cookie recipes, then be sure to try making a batch of Funfetti Sugar Cookies or Pecan Sandies. Also, try making Original Lemon Bars that have a shortbread crust that is similar to these shortbread cookies.

Flowers, candy, cards…can you tell that it is almost Valentine’s Day?

The day in which you show those you love how much you appreciate them. Some people go all out with lavish date nights at fancy restaurants, while others prefer to avoid the crowds and have a quiet evening.

Regardless of what you choose to do or even if you don't have a special someone to celebrate the day with, then I want to remind you not to forget about expressing love for the most important person which is yourself.

I know, I know, sounds a bit selfish right? No, not really, when you think about it self-care is often overlooked due to family and work commitments but it's important because you can't serve others if your cup is empty. You have to place the air mask on yourself before you can help anyone else apply their own mask, Valentine’s Day is the perfect day to show yourself more love.

And if you need a little sweet treat to add to your self-care celebration, then be sure to give this three ingredients shortbread cookie recipe a try!

Jump to:

• Ingredients You'll Need
• Step By Step Instructions
• Recipe Tips & Tricks
• Storage
• More Recipes You'll Love
• 📖 Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need

1. Butter - Use any butter that you prefer. It can be salted or unsalted, it really doesn't matter with this particular cookie recipe. Try to remove the butter from the refrigerator a few minutes before making these cookies for easier mixing.
2. Powdered Sugar - Also known as confectioners sugar, helps to sweeten the cookies and make them light in flavor. If you notice the powdered sugar is lumpy, then try sifting before using it.
3. All-Purpose Flour - All-purpose plain flour is all that is needed to make these cookies. This ingredient will help to make the cookie dough thick and allow it to softly set.

See the recipe card below for exact ingredient quantities and instructions.

Step By Step Instructions

Begin the cookie recipe by lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. In a large bowl, with a mixer add the butter and mix on medium speed until smooth and creamy.

Slowly add the powdered sugar and continue mixing until combined. Add in the all-purpose flour and mix until combined and a soft cookie dough ball forms.

Turn off the mixer and place the soft dough ball on some plastic wrap and tightly twist it around the cookie dough. Place into the refrigerator and allow it to chill for about 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Remove the cookie dough from the refrigerator and using a rolling pin, roll the dough about ¼ inch thick on a clean flat surface that is lightly dusted with additional powdered sugar. Don't forget to dust the rolling pin with powdered sugar as well to prevent sticking.

Cut the cookies into their shape and place them on the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet. Place the cookies into the oven to bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the edges of the cookies begin to lightly brown.

Allow the shortbread cookies time to cool on a baking rack for about 10 minutes before removing them completely from the baking sheet. Enjoy!

Recipe Tips & Tricks

• Try to remove the butter from the refrigerator before making these cookies and allow it to soften a bit to room temperature for easier mixing.
• This cookie dough needs to be chilled in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before handling. It can be stored longer and up to 1 week if necessary.
• Dust the surface and rolling pin in powdered sugar or all-purpose flour to prevent sticking.
• Before baking top the cookies with some sugar sprinkles or finely chopped nuts.
• Dip the baked and cooled cookies in some melted chocolate for a little something extra.

Storage

These shortbread cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 5 to 7 days. The unbaked cookie dough can be stored in an airtight container or some plastic wrap for up to 1 week and in the freezer for up to 1 month.

More Recipes You'll Love

• Funfetti Sugar Cookies
• Icebox Cookies
• Pecan Sandies
• Easy Russian Tea Cakes

Have any comments, questions, or other fun and delicious ways to use this Easy Shortbread Cookie Recipe? Please share them in the comment section listed below!

📖 Recipe

Original post date 02/13/2017. Updated 02/01/2023.