4-Ingredient Christmas Shortbread Cookies

Nothing captures the warmth and joy of the holiday season quite like freshly baked treats, and these delightful 4-Ingredient Christmas Shortbread Cookies are no exception. With just four simple ingredients, you can create buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that bring festive cheer to any gathering. Perfectly easy and incredibly tasty, this recipe combines simplicity with that classic holiday flavor, making it a must-have for your seasonal baking adventures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity at its best: Only four ingredients means less time prepping and more time enjoying the holidays.
• Perfectly buttery texture: These cookies melt in your mouth with a rich, tender crumb that’s truly unforgettable.
• Festive and customizable: Easily add your favorite holiday spices or toppings to make them uniquely yours.
• Great for beginners: Straightforward steps ensure success for bakers of all skill levels.
• Ideal for gifting: These charming cookies wrap up beautifully for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, focusing on a handful of essential ingredients that each play a key role in texture, flavor, and appearance. Every item is easy to find and keeps the cookies buttery, crumbly, and just festive enough for holiday magic.

• Unsalted butter: The foundation of these cookies, butter adds richness and that classic shortbread tenderness.
• Sugar: Granulated or superfine sugar contributes just the right amount of sweetness and helps with crisping.
• All-purpose flour: Provides structure and helps create that perfect crumbly shortbread texture.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the buttery flavor and adds a warm, inviting aroma.

Variations for 4-Ingredient Christmas Shortbread Cookies

One of the best parts about this 4-Ingredient Christmas Shortbread Cookies recipe is how effortlessly it can be tailored to your tastes or dietary preferences. Whether you want to add a festive twist or swap ingredients, options abound to make the cookies your own.

• Spiced delight: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a warm holiday flavor boost.
• Chocolate-dipped: Dip half of each cookie in melted dark or white chocolate for an elegant touch.
• Nutty add-ins: Fold in chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for extra crunch and flavor.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for allergy-friendly treats.
• Festive sprinkles: Press red and green sugar crystals or nonpareils on top before baking for colorful flair.

How to Make 4-Ingredient Christmas Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by softening the unsalted butter to room temperature, which will make mixing easier and ensure a smooth dough. Measure out the sugar, flour, and vanilla extract so everything is ready for quick assembly.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step creates the perfect airy texture that shortbread is known for.

Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract

Mix in the vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse the dough with its signature warmth and depth of flavor.

Step 4: Incorporate the Flour

Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the creamed mixture, mixing on low speed just until fully combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender and crumbly.

Step 5: Shape and Chill the Dough

Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps prevent spreading during baking and improves the texture.

Step 6: Cut and Bake

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick, then use cookie cutters to create your favorite shapes. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes until the edges just begin to turn golden.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cooled, your perfect 4-Ingredient Christmas Shortbread Cookies are ready to be enjoyed or gifted!

Pro Tips for Making 4-Ingredient Christmas Shortbread Cookies

• Use cold butter for crisper cookies: If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, chill the butter before creaming.
• Don’t overmix: Incorporate the flour just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
• Chill the dough well: This prevents spreading and helps maintain cookie shapes.
• Roll evenly: Rolling your dough to a consistent thickness ensures even baking.
• Experiment with shapes: Festive cutters instantly add holiday spirit without extra decorating.

How to Serve 4-Ingredient Christmas Shortbread Cookies

Garnishes

Sprinkle with a light dusting of powdered sugar or add a drizzle of melted chocolate for a beautiful finishing touch that enhances flavor and presentation.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside warm beverages such as hot cocoa, mulled cider, or spiced tea to complement their buttery goodness and elevate your holiday gatherings.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the cookies in a festive tin tied with a ribbon, arrange them on a decorated platter, or wrap small batches in cellophane bags for charming holiday gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to keep them fresh and crisp.

Freezing

Freeze baked cookies in a sealed container for up to three months; thaw at room temperature before serving to maintain their texture.

Reheating

If you prefer warm cookies, gently heat them in a low oven (around 275°F/135°C) for 5-7 minutes—just enough to bring back that freshly baked feeling without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter for the 4-Ingredient Christmas Shortbread Cookies?

Yes, but it’s best to reduce or omit any additional salt in the recipe to avoid an overly salty taste.

Can I add spices to the dough?

Absolutely! Adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or ground ginger will give your shortbread a festive flavor twist without complicating the recipe.

How do I keep my cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough before baking and avoiding overmixing the flour will help your cookies hold their shape and achieve the ideal shortbread texture.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour blend and handle the dough gently as some blends differ in texture.

How should I store leftover cookies to keep them fresh?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they should stay delicious for up to a week without losing their texture or flavor.

Final Thoughts

These 4-Ingredient Christmas Shortbread Cookies bring together simplicity, flavor, and festive cheer in one delightful package. Whether it’s your first time baking shortbread or you’re a seasoned pro looking for a quick holiday recipe, these cookies are sure to spread joy. Grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones in the kitchen, and make memories one buttery bite at a time. Happy baking and happy holidays!

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