Description
These 4 Ingredient Shortbread Cookies combine rich, buttery flavors with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture using only four simple plant-based ingredients. Quick and easy to make, they are perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying with a warm cup of tea or coffee alternative. Customize with your favorite toppings or flavors for a delightful treat anytime.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup plant-based butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon natural vanilla extract (natural)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Begin by creaming the plant-based butter and sugar together in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process helps incorporate air, giving the cookies their tender texture. Next, add the natural vanilla extract (natural) and mix until fully combined.
- Add the Flour: Gradually sift the all-purpose flour into the bowl, folding it gently into the creamed mixture. The goal is to combine everything into a soft, uniform dough without overworking it to keep the cookies tender.
- Shape the Cookies: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently roll it out until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters or simply cut into squares or fingers with a knife, depending on your preference. Transfer the cut cookies to a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little room between them.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes until the edges turn a lovely golden shade. Once baked, let them cool fully on a wire rack for the best texture before enjoying or decorating.
Notes
- Use softened plant-based butter, not melted, for the best dough consistency.
- Fold the flour in gently to keep the crumb light, avoiding tough cookies.
- If your kitchen is warm, chilling the dough can help keep the cookies from spreading too much.
- Watch your cookies closely in the last 5 minutes to prevent overbaking and dryness.
- Keep the cookies in an airtight container once cooled to preserve crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Western
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: shortbread cookies, plant-based, vegan cookies, simple cookies, quick dessert