Name: Easy Shortbread Cookies: 3 Ingredients, No Chill—Deliciously Simple!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour

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Introduction to Easy Shortbread Cookies: 3 Ingredients, No Chill!

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to baking. That’s why I absolutely adore these Easy Shortbread Cookies: 3 Ingredients, No Chill! They’re a delightful treat that comes together in a flash, perfect for those hectic days when you want to whip up something special without the fuss. With just three simple ingredients, you can create a batch of buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that will impress your loved ones. Trust me, these cookies are not just easy; they’re a little slice of happiness!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Shortbread Cookies: 3 Ingredients, No Chill!

These Easy Shortbread Cookies are a lifesaver for anyone juggling a busy schedule. With just three ingredients, you can whip them up in no time. They’re buttery, sweet, and simply irresistible! Plus, there’s no chilling required, so you can go from mixing bowl to oven in a flash. Whether you need a quick dessert or a treat for unexpected guests, these cookies are your go-to solution!

Ingredients for Easy Shortbread Cookies: 3 Ingredients, No Chill

Let’s dive into the magic of these Easy Shortbread Cookies! You only need three main ingredients, plus a few optional ones to elevate the flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Unsalted Butter: The star of the show! Softened butter gives these cookies their rich, creamy texture. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Powdered Sugar: This sweet ingredient adds just the right amount of sweetness and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth feel. It’s finer than granulated sugar, which is perfect for cookies.
All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of your cookie dough. It provides structure and helps bind everything together. You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier twist!

For those who want to get a little creative, consider adding:

Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla can enhance the flavor beautifully. Just a teaspoon will do!
Almond Extract: If you’re feeling adventurous, almond extract adds a lovely nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the buttery taste.
Chocolate Chips: For a fun twist, mix in some chocolate chips. Who doesn’t love a little chocolate?

All the exact measurements for these ingredients are at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print out and keep handy!

How to Make Easy Shortbread Cookies: 3 Ingredients, No Chill

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Easy Shortbread Cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of delicious cookies in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. If you skip this step, your cookies might end up unevenly cooked, and nobody wants that!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to cream them together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step is key for achieving that light texture. The air you incorporate here will make your cookies melt in your mouth!

Step 3: Add the Flour

Next, gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix it in slowly to avoid flour clouds in your kitchen! You want to combine it until a dough forms. If you see any lumps, don’t worry; just keep mixing until everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Now it’s time to shape the dough into small balls. Aim for uniform sizes, about one inch in diameter. This helps them bake evenly. If you want to get fancy, you can use a cookie scoop for perfectly round cookies!

Step 5: Flatten the Cookies

Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Gently flatten each ball with a fork or your fingers. This step is important because it helps the cookies spread out while baking, giving them that classic shortbread look.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when the edges are lightly golden. If you wait too long, they might become too crispy, and we want that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture!

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This cooling process is essential; it allows the cookies to firm up a bit. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week—if they last that long!

Tips for Success

Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
Use a light hand when mixing to keep the cookies tender.
Don’t skip the parchment paper; it prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Experiment with flavors by adding extracts or spices to the dough.
Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different!

Equipment Needed

Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. A sturdy plastic or glass bowl works well.
Hand Mixer or Whisk: For creaming butter and sugar. A whisk is a great workout!
Baking Sheet: A flat tray for baking. If you don’t have one, a pizza stone can work too.
Parchment Paper: To line your baking sheet. If you’re out, greasing the sheet is a good alternative.
Wire Rack: For cooling cookies. A plate can also do the trick!

Variations of Easy Shortbread Cookies: 3 Ingredients, No Chill

Chocolate-Dipped: Melt some chocolate and dip half of each cookie for a decadent treat. Let them cool on parchment paper.
Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing twist. It brightens the flavor beautifully!
Nutty Shortbread: Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor. They pair perfectly with the buttery base.
Herbed Shortbread: For a savory option, incorporate dried herbs like rosemary or thyme. These cookies are great for cheese platters!
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just make sure it’s a 1:1 ratio for best results.

Serving Suggestions for Easy Shortbread Cookies: 3 Ingredients, No Chill

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
Serve them alongside fresh fruit for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Dust with extra powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
Arrange on a decorative platter for special occasions or gatherings.
Try them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert!

FAQs about Easy Shortbread Cookies: 3 Ingredients, No Chill

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Absolutely! If you only have salted butter on hand, just reduce the added sugar slightly. The cookies will still turn out delicious!

How do I store the cookies?

Store your Easy Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week—if they last that long!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes! You can freeze the shaped dough balls. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I add to the dough for extra flavor?

Feel free to mix in vanilla or almond extract for a flavor boost. You can also add citrus zest or even chocolate chips for a fun twist!

Why are my cookies too hard?

If your cookies turn out hard, it might be due to overbaking. Keep an eye on them, and remember, they should be lightly golden at the edges for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture!

Final Thoughts

Making these Easy Shortbread Cookies: 3 Ingredients, No Chill is like a warm hug on a busy day. The simplicity of the recipe allows you to create something truly special without the stress. Each bite is a reminder of the joy that comes from baking, even when time is tight. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, these cookies bring a little sweetness to life. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of baking fill your home with warmth and happiness!

Easy Shortbread Cookies: 3 Ingredients, No Chill—Deliciously Simple!

Print Recipe

These Easy Shortbread Cookies require just 3 ingredients and no chilling time, making them a quick and delicious treat.

Author: Ghalina
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and mix until a dough forms.
Shape the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Flatten each ball slightly with a fork or your fingers.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.