Description
These 4 Ingredient Shortbread Cookies are a simple and delightful bake using just a few plant-based staples. They produce buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies with a perfect crumbly texture, perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Quick to prepare and versatile for many variations, they suit any occasion and bring joy to your kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
Basic Ingredients
- 1 cup plant-based butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (natural)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (natural)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by softening the plant-based butter to room temperature for easy mixing. Measure out your powdered sugar (natural), all-purpose flour, and vanilla extract (natural) so everything is ready to go.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a mixer or a sturdy spoon, beat together the softened plant-based butter and powdered sugar (natural) until fluffy and light in color. This is key for that delicate, crumbly texture.
- Add Vanilla and Flour: Stir in the vanilla extract (natural) to the creamy butter and sugar mixture. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, folding it in gently to keep the dough tender and smooth without overworking it.
- Shape the Cookies: Once the dough comes together, roll it into a log or press it into a pan if you prefer bar-style shortbread. Slice into thick rounds or cut into squares depending on your desired shape and size.
- Bake to Perfection: Place your shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 18 to 22 minutes, until the edges just start to turn golden. Let cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Soft Butter Matters: Make sure your butter is soft but not melted for the perfect dough consistency.
- Don’t Overmix: Combine ingredients just until incorporated to avoid tough cookies.
- Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too soft, chilling it briefly can help with easier shaping and cleaner cuts.
- Use Powdered Sugar (natural): This keeps the dough smooth and avoids graininess in your cookies.
- Thin Slicing: Slice cookie logs at about 1/2-inch thickness for even baking and ideal crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: shortbread, 4 ingredient cookies, plant-based cookies, simple baking, melt-in-your-mouth
