Nothing beats the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of a classic shortbread cookie. Whether you’re in the United States, the United Kingdom, or Canada, this homemade shortbread cookie recipe in minutes is quick, simple, and perfect for busy days or last-minute treats. With just a few pantry staples, you can enjoy freshly baked shortbread cookies that rival store-bought ones.
Why Shortbread Cookies Are a Favorite
Shortbread cookies are beloved for their:
Buttery flavor that melts in your mouth
Simple ingredients—no fancy add-ons required
Versatility—perfect for tea, coffee, or dessert platters
Quick preparation—ready to bake in under 10 minutes
Ingredients (Makes 12–16 Cookies)
1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or a pinch of lemon zest
Step-by-Step: Homemade Shortbread Cookie Recipe in Minutes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, mix softened butter and sugar until smooth and creamy.
If using vanilla extract, add it now.
Step 3: Add Flour and Salt
Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a dough forms.
Dough should be soft but not sticky.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Roll dough into a log and slice into rounds, or
Roll dough flat and use cookie cutters for fun shapes
Place cookies on the lined baking tray, leaving space between each.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies tender and buttery.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let cookies cool on the tray for 5 minutes
Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely
Enjoy with tea, coffee, or as a simple sweet treat
Quick Tips for Perfect Shortbread Cookies
✔ Use room-temperature butter for easier mixing
✔ Don’t overmix dough once flour is added—prevents toughness
✔ For extra flavor, sprinkle a little sugar on top before baking
✔ Store cooled cookies in an airtight container to keep them crisp
Variations to Try
Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread: Dip half the cookie in melted chocolate
Nutty Shortbread: Add finely chopped almonds or pecans
Spiced Shortbread: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg
Gluten-Free: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend
Storage Tips
Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week
Freeze unbaked dough for up to 3 months; slice and bake as needed
Store baked cookies in the fridge for longer freshness, but let them come to room temperature before serving
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Overbaking—shortbread should remain light, not dark
❌ Using cold butter—dough won’t mix properly
❌ Adding too much flour—makes cookies dry
❌ Skipping parchment paper—cookies may stick
Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days
Quick preparation—dough ready in under 5 minutes
Minimal ingredients you likely already have
No complicated techniques or equipment required
Perfect for last-minute treats or spontaneous baking sessions
Conclusion
This homemade shortbread cookie recipe in minutes proves that classic cookies can be fast, simple, and delicious. With buttery flavor, tender texture, and endless customization options, these cookies are perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re making them for tea time, gifts, or a cozy snack, these shortbread cookies are quick to prepare and impossible to resist. 🍪💛