Oh, the joy of holiday baking! There’s something so magical about filling the house with the warm, buttery aroma of fresh cookies, and these 4 ingredient Christmas shortbread cookies are my go-to recipe every year. Trust me, if you’re looking for an easy and delightful treat to whip up for the holidays, you’re in the right place!
Growing up, my family always made shortbread cookies together, and it became one of our favorite holiday traditions. It’s a simple recipe that brings everyone together in the kitchen, and I love how just a few basic ingredients can create something so delicious. You won’t need a fancy mixer or a ton of time; just your hands, a bowl, and a baking sheet!
These cookies are buttery, crumbly, and utterly irresistible, and the best part? You can customize them however you like! Whether you want to sprinkle some festive decorations on top or enjoy them plain with a cup of tea, they’re bound to bring smiles to your loved ones. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get baking!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Make sure the butter is at room temperature so it creams easily with the sugar. This is what gives our cookies that delightful, melt-in-your-mouth texture!
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: This sweetener blends beautifully with the butter, creating a light and airy cookie. The powdered sugar also helps make the cookies tender.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of our shortbread! This will give the cookies structure, so don’t skimp on the measuring—level it off for accuracy.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This is where the magic happens! Vanilla adds a warm, comforting flavor that complements the buttery goodness perfectly. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a dash of almond extract too!
How to Prepare Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your cookies start baking at the right temperature, giving them that perfect golden color and texture. While the oven heats up, you can gather your ingredients and get ready to mix!
Cream the Butter and Sugar
Now, grab a mixing bowl and let’s cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together. I like to use a fork or a spatula for this—just mix until it’s nice and smooth, and you don’t see any lumps. This step is important! Creaming introduces air into the mixture, which helps make your cookies light and fluffy. You want it to be soft and spreadable, almost like a dreamy buttercream!
Add Vanilla Extract
Next, it’s time to add the vanilla extract. Oh, the aroma of vanilla! It’s like a warm hug for your cookies. Stir it into the butter and sugar mixture until well combined. This little addition really elevates the flavor and makes your shortbread taste just like the holidays!
Combine Flour
Now, let’s gradually incorporate the flour into the mixture. I usually add it in about a cup at a time, mixing gently until it all comes together into a dough. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep that tender texture we love in shortbread. Once it forms a cohesive dough, you’re good to go!
Shape the Cookies
Time to shape our cookies! Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on your baking sheet, making sure to give them some space. Then, flatten each ball slightly with the back of a fork or your fingers. This helps them spread evenly while baking, so don’t skip this step!
Baking Time
Pop your baking sheet into the preheated oven and let those cookies bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when the edges turn lightly golden but the centers remain soft. It’s the perfect balance of crunchy and chewy!
Cooling Instructions
Once they’re out of the oven, resist the urge to dive in right away! Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack or a plate. This cooling time allows them to firm up a bit, making them easier to handle. Trust me, they’ll be worth the wait!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s ridiculously easy with just 4 ingredients—perfect for busy holiday baking!
- The cookies turn out buttery and crumbly, just like traditional shortbread should be.
- You’ll be amazed at how quickly they come together—ready in just 30 minutes!
- They’re easily customizable for extra festive flair, whether you want to add sprinkles, icing, or even a hint of almond extract.
- These cookies are a crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for holiday parties or as gifts!
- They store beautifully, so you can make them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the season.
- They pair perfectly with a warm cup of tea or coffee, adding that cozy touch to your holiday gatherings.
Tips for Success
To make sure your 4 ingredient Christmas shortbread cookies turn out absolutely perfect, here are some of my top tips that I’ve learned through years of cookie baking bliss:
- Use Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before starting. Cold butter won’t cream well with the sugar, and we want that light, fluffy texture!
- Don’t Overmix: When you add the flour, mix just until it comes together. Overmixing can make your cookies tough instead of tender and crumbly.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): If you have time, pop the dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes before shaping. This can help the cookies hold their shape better during baking.
- Keep an Eye on Them: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. You want them to be just golden on the edges, with a soft center. It’s better to underbake slightly than to risk drying them out!
- Experiment with Flavor: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Adding a dash of almond extract or a bit of lemon zest can really change the flavor profile and make them even more festive.
- Decorate While Warm: If you’re planning to decorate your cookies with icing or sprinkles, do it while they’re still warm! This helps the decorations stick nicely.
- Store Properly: Keep your cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They’ll last for about a week—but trust me, they probably won’t last that long!
With these tips in hand, you’re all set to create a batch of delicious shortbread cookies that are sure to impress your family and friends. Happy baking!
Variations
One of the best things about these 4 ingredient Christmas shortbread cookies is how incredibly versatile they are! You can easily customize them to match your holiday spirit or personal taste. Here are some fun ideas to inspire your creativity:
- Almond Extract: Swap out the vanilla for almond extract for a delightful twist! It adds a beautiful nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the buttery goodness of the cookies.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate some lemon or orange zest into the dough for a refreshing zing. Just a teaspoon will brighten up the flavor and give your cookies a festive touch!
- Chocolate Chips: Fold in some mini chocolate chips for a decadent addition. The little bursts of chocolate will make each bite even more delightful!
- Sprinkles: If you want to add a splash of color, sprinkle some festive holiday sprinkles on top of the cookies before they bake. They’ll look so cheerful on your holiday dessert platter!
- Decorative Icing: Once cooled, drizzle some royal icing or melted chocolate over the cookies for a beautiful finish. You can also pipe designs or write messages for a personal touch.
- Nutty Goodness: Add finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the dough for a crunchy texture and extra flavor. Just make sure to adjust the flour a bit if you add a lot!
- Spices: Sprinkle in some ground cinnamon or nutmeg to give your cookies a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for the holidays. Just a pinch will do the trick!
Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your own unique batch of cookies. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait for you to experiment and find your favorite combination!
Nutritional Information Section
While I love sharing these delicious 4 ingredient Christmas shortbread cookies, it’s important to note that the nutritional information can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, this data is just an estimate to give you a rough idea of what you’re enjoying!
Here’s a breakdown of approximate nutrition per cookie:
- Calories: 100
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Remember, these cookies are a delightful treat to enjoy during the holidays, so savor every bite! If you’re counting calories or have dietary restrictions, it’s always a good idea to check the specific ingredients you’re using. Happy baking and indulging!
FAQ Section
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that it will add a bit of saltiness to the cookies, which can actually enhance the flavor. If you do use salted butter, I recommend skipping any additional salt in the recipe.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can roll the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough feels too dry and crumbly, you can add a teaspoon of milk or water a little at a time until it comes together. Just be careful not to add too much—shortbread should be a bit crumbly but still hold together nicely!
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Definitely! These cookies store beautifully in an airtight container for about a week. You can also make them a few days in advance and let them sit to allow the flavors to develop even more. Just be sure to keep them sealed to maintain their freshness!
How can I tell when the cookies are done baking?
Look for lightly golden edges and a soft center. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem a bit soft right when you take them out of the oven. Just keep a close eye on them, as ovens can vary!
4 Ingredient Christmas Shortbread Cookies for Holiday Joy
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Easy 4 ingredient Christmas shortbread cookies perfect for the holidays.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Gradually add the flour and mix until a dough forms.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Flatten each ball slightly with a fork.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let them cool before serving.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- For added flavor, consider adding almond extract.
- These cookies can be decorated with icing or sprinkles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: 4 ingredient Christmas shortbread cookies
