3 Ingredient Shortbread Cookies - VLOGMAS DAY 18


Day 18 of #VLOGMAS2021, and we’re taking a step back from the complicated bakes and elaborate flavors to embrace simplicity in its purest, most delicious form. Today, we’re making 3-Ingredient Shortbread Cookies, and honestly, they feel like a warm hug in cookie form. There’s something deeply satisfying about a recipe that uses so few ingredients yet delivers such incredible results. No endless shopping lists, no special equipment, no tricky steps. Just three humble ingredients coming together to create a treat that’s crumbly, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth good.

Shortbread has been a beloved treat for centuries, with origins tracing back to Scotland in the 12th century. Back then, it was considered a luxury reserved for celebrations like weddings, Christmas, and New Year’s. The name itself comes from the texture, “short” referring to its crumbly nature, thanks to the high butter content, and “bread” because it was once made like a dense biscuit bread before evolving into the sweet version we know today. What I love most about shortbread is how it has stood the test of time without needing to be dressed up. It’s proof that simplicity can be powerful. You don’t need a dozen ingredients or layers of flavors, just good butter, the right proportions, and a little patience in the oven.

Sometimes, less really is more. In a season when kitchens are often overflowing with elaborate desserts, frosted layer cakes, and trays of assorted cookies, these shortbread cookies feel refreshingly uncomplicated. They’re like the quiet friend at a party who doesn’t need to shout to be heard, they win you over with their charm and authenticity. The beauty of minimalist baking is that it leaves no room to hide, the flavor has to shine through because there’s nothing else competing for attention. Every bite of shortbread is a celebration of pure buttery goodness, with a light sweetness that makes them so easy to keep nibbling.

I get it, December is hectic. Between gift shopping, decorating, wrapping, and the constant stream of holiday events, the idea of baking can sometimes feel like just another chore. But this recipe changes that. With only three ingredients, you probably already have everything you need in your kitchen. There’s no need for multiple mixing bowls or a long ingredient prep list. You could go from craving to enjoying fresh shortbread cookies in under 30 minutes, which is a Christmas miracle in my book.

One of my favorite things about these cookies is how kid-friendly they are. Because the ingredient list is so short and the steps are straightforward, it’s a perfect recipe for introducing little ones to baking.
Kids love measuring, mixing, and (let’s be honest) sneaking bits of dough. Shortbread dough is also easy to handle and shape, which makes it ideal for letting kids cut out fun cookie shapes or simply roll into rounds. And when they see the finished cookies come out of the oven, there’s this magical sparkle in their eyes, the joy of making something from scratch.

Good shortbread is all about texture. These cookies strike that beautiful balance between crumbly and tender, holding together just enough to give you a satisfying bite before melting away in your mouth. That melt-in-your-mouth effect is what makes them so irresistible, you’ll find yourself reaching for “just one more” until the plate is mysteriously empty. Paired with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot cocoa, they make the perfect afternoon pick-me-up. They’re also light enough to enjoy after a heavier holiday meal without feeling overindulgent.

While these cookies are perfect as they are, you can also get creative if the mood strikes:
Chocolate Drizzle – A light drizzle of melted dark or white chocolate takes them from simple to elegant.
Citrus Zest – Add orange or lemon zest to the dough for a bright, fresh twist.
Festive Shapes – Use holiday cookie cutters to turn them into stars, trees, or snowflakes.
Sugar Sparkle – Sprinkle the tops with a bit of coarse sugar before baking for a gentle crunch.
The fact that the base recipe is so simple makes it the perfect canvas for your imagination.

Shortbread cookies have a wonderful shelf life compared to many other baked goods, which makes them ideal for gifting. You can bake a big batch, package them in a festive tin or cellophane bag, and you’ve got a thoughtful homemade gift that travels well. Because their flavor is universally appealing, not overly sweet, not overly spiced, they’re a safe bet for coworkers, neighbors, or that hard-to-shop-for relative. And let’s be honest, edible gifts are rarely returned.

We’re now officially deep into #VLOGMAS2021, and each day feels like unwrapping a little gift from the kitchen. Day 18 is special because it reminds me of the joy in simplicity. In the rush of the season, it’s easy to get caught up in perfection, in making everything bigger, bolder, more elaborate. But sometimes, the things we remember most are the simplest: sitting with a warm drink, enjoying a buttery cookie, and taking a breath in the middle of the holiday whirlwind. These shortbread cookies aren’t flashy, but they have heart. And in a way, that’s what #VLOGMAS is about for me, sharing food that feels like home.

When I was younger, my grandmother would make shortbread every Christmas Eve. She never measured, just scooped ingredients by feel, her hands working quickly and confidently. She’d cut the dough into simple rectangles, prick them with a fork, and bake them until just golden at the edges.
We’d eat them while they were still warm, the butteriness coating our fingers, and the whole house smelling like Christmas. Whenever I bake shortbread now, that memory comes rushing back, the sound of holiday music playing softly, the laughter from the living room, and the anticipation of the next day’s celebrations. That’s the thing about recipes like this: they’re not just cookies, they’re little vessels for tradition and memory.

Day 18’s 3-Ingredient Shortbread Cookies are proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen to make something truly special. They’re quick, simple, and endlessly satisfying, a true holiday MVP for busy bakers, families, and anyone who appreciates the beauty of keeping things uncomplicated. So as you check off your holiday to-do list, take a moment to enjoy something simple. Brew your favorite warm drink, grab a couple of shortbread cookies, and let yourself savor the quiet joy they bring. Sometimes, that’s all the magic you need.


Who Should Make These Cookies?
These 3 Ingredient Shortbread Cookies are a dream come true for busy bakers, minimalists, or anyone with a sweet tooth. Whether you need a quick treat to satisfy your cravings, a simple homemade gift, or a delightful addition to your afternoon tea, these cookies are the answer. They are also an excellent choice for those looking to introduce their kids to the joy of baking. With just a handful of ingredients and easy steps, these cookies make for a fantastic family activity.

The Magic of Shortbread
Shortbread cookies are known for their buttery, crumbly texture and delicate sweetness. The secret lies in the simplicity of the ingredients and the method. The combination of butter, sugar, and flour creates a cookie that's both rich and tender. Shortbread has its origins in Scotland and has been cherished for centuries for its versatility and irresistible taste.

INGREDIENTS 


Ingredients You'll Need
Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let's gather our ingredients:
  • 1 Cup Butter: Opt for high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor.
  • 1/2 Cup Powdered Sugar: The fine texture of powdered sugar ensures a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
  • 2 Cups All-Purpose Flour: Use a good-quality all-purpose flour for the perfect balance of tenderness and structure.
Kitchen Equipment

To make these cookies, you'll need:
  • Mixing Bowls: One large bowl for mixing the dough and a smaller one for the powdered sugar.
  • Electric Mixer: While you can mix the dough by hand, an electric mixer makes the process quicker and easier.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements.
  • Baking Sheets: To bake the cookies.
  • Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking.
  • Cookie Cutters: Optional, but they add a delightful touch if you want to shape your cookies.
Now, let's get baking!

Directions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). While it's heating up, make sure your butter is at room temperature. This will make it easier to cream with the sugar.
In a small bowl, sift the powdered sugar to remove any lumps. This will ensure a smooth and uniform texture in your cookies. Set it aside.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In your large mixing bowl, add the room-temperature butter and sifted powdered sugar. Use your electric mixer (or a sturdy spatula and some elbow grease) to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Flour
Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix; you want a crumbly, tender texture, not a tough cookie.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a log shape, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap them in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the dough firm up and makes it easier to slice.

Step 5: Slice and Bake
Once the dough is firm, remove it from the refrigerator. Pre-slice your cookies by cutting the logs into rounds or using your favorite cookie cutter shapes. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each cookie.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them, as shortbread cookies can go from perfect to overdone quickly.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, let the cookies cool on a wire rack. They will continue to firm up as they cool, achieving that signature shortbread texture. Enjoy your 3 Ingredient Shortbread Cookies with a cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of milk.

Recipe Variations
Get creative with your shortbread cookies by adding your favorite mix-ins or toppings:
  • Chocolate Chip Shortbread: Fold in a half cup of mini chocolate chips for a delightful twist.
  • Nutty Shortbread: Mix in finely chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
  • Dipped Delights: Dip half of each cookie into melted chocolate and let it set for an indulgent treat.
Perfect Pairings
Pair these 3 Ingredient Shortbread Cookies with:
  • A cup of Earl Grey tea for a classic tea-time experience.
  • A scoop of vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert.
  • A glass of champagne for an elegant touch at special occasions.

3 Ingredient Shortbread Cookies – FAQs

1. What are 3 ingredient shortbread cookies?

These are simple, classic shortbread cookies made with just three basic ingredients—usually butter, sugar, and flour—resulting in a buttery, crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

2. Can I use different types of sugar?

Yes. Granulated sugar is common, but powdered sugar or brown sugar can be used for slight texture and flavor variations.

3. What kind of flour is best?

All-purpose flour works best for traditional texture, but some recipes use cake flour for a more delicate crumb.

4. Can I add flavors?

Absolutely! Vanilla extract, lemon zest, or almond extract can enhance flavor without complicating the ingredient list.

5. How should I store these cookies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for up to 1 week.

Nutrition Card – Approx. per cookie (~15g)

Nutrient Amount % Daily Value (DV) Notes
Calories 90 kcal Depends on butter content and size
Protein 1 g 2% Minimal protein from flour
Carbohydrates 7 g 3% Mainly from flour and sugar
Sugars 3 g From sugar
Fat 6 g 9% From butter
Sodium 10 mg <1% Very low sodium
Cholesterol 15 mg 5% From butter


Dietary Compatibility & Notes

Diet Type Compatible? Suggestions
Gluten-Free ❌ No Use gluten-free flour blend
Dairy-Free ❌ No Substitute with dairy-free butter alternative
Keto/Low-Carb ❌ No Contains flour and sugar
Paleo ❌ No Not compliant due to grains and sugar
Whole30 ❌ No Contains grains and sugar
Vegetarian ✅ Yes All ingredients are plant-based except butter
Vegan ❌ No Use vegan butter substitutes

Baking Tip:

Press dough evenly in the pan and chill before baking to maintain shape. Avoid overbaking for a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used. For precise nutritional information, consider using a nutrition calculator with exact ingredient measurements.

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