Description
These 4 Ingredient Shortbread Cookies are a simple, quick, and delicious treat with a rich buttery flavor and tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Made with plant-based butter, powdered sugar, all-purpose flour, and natural vanilla extract, they are perfect for any occasion and easy to customize with various flavor twists. Ideal for bakers of all skill levels, these cookies offer an indulgent and satisfying experience with minimal ingredients and effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Basic Ingredients
- 1 cup plant-based butter, cold
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon natural vanilla extract (natural)
Instructions
- Cream the Plant-Based Butter and Powdered Sugar: Start by beating the cold plant-based butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture becomes fluffy and light. This step is essential to create the cookie’s tender texture and slightly crumbly consistency.
- Add Natural Vanilla Extract: Mix in the natural vanilla extract thoroughly to evenly incorporate its sweet aroma and flavor throughout the dough.
- Incorporate the Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour while stirring gently until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing to keep the shortbread tender and crumbly rather than dense.
- Shape and Chill the Dough: Form the dough into a log or roll it out to your preferred thickness on parchment paper. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes so the dough firms up, making it easier to cut.
- Cut and Bake the Cookies: Slice the dough into even cookies, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment, and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 18 to 20 minutes until the edges just turn golden.
Notes
- Use cold plant-based butter to help cookies hold their shape and achieve a crumbly texture.
- Measure flour carefully by spooning and leveling to prevent dense or dry cookies.
- Do not overbake; bake until just golden to maintain softness and melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- Chill dough well to firm it and make cutting easier while retaining cookie structure.
- Experiment with shapes using cookie cutters or keep classic simple slices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: shortbread, cookies, easy recipe, plant-based butter, vegan, four ingredients, gluten-free option, baking
