Gluten Free Shortbread Cookies Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house, especially when they are gluten-free shortbread cookies made with love. The buttery richness, the delicate crumb, and that satisfying crunch—these cookies embody comfort, nostalgia, and joy.

I still remember my grandmother’s kitchen, filled with the scent of her buttery shortbread, and today, I want to share that feeling with you through this Gluten Free Shortbread Cookies Recipe. These cookies are just as delightful and can be easily tailored to your taste with various add-ins.

What is Gluten Free Shortbread Cookies Recipe?

At its heart, the Gluten Free Shortbread Cookies Recipe is a twist on a classic baked good that hails from Scotland, where simple ingredients like flour, sugar, and butter come to life. Traditionally, shortbread is all about texture—crisp on the outside and tender within—something that can be easily replicated in gluten-free baking with the right flours.

Embracing the gluten-free lifestyle doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or texture. With this recipe, I offer you the chance to enjoy melt-in-your-mouth shortbread, showcasing a wonderful balance between sweet and buttery. The secret lies in using quality gluten-free flour blends and simple baking techniques.

Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Shortbread Cookies Recipe

• Irresistibly Buttery Flavor: The richness of unsalted butter ensures every bite is decadent and satisfying.
• Versatility: Customize your cookies with chocolate, fruits, or other delightful additions, catering to every palate.
• Simple Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is approachable for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Family-Friendly: Perfect for gatherings, these cookies resonate with both young and old, making them loved by all.

Who It’s For

• Home cooks who want inclusive desserts for gatherings.
• Health-conscious families seeking gluten-free alternatives.
• Beginners eager to explore baking without overwhelming complexity.
• Foodies looking for delightful snacks to pair with coffee or tea.

When to Cook It

• Cozy Nights: Perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee at home.
• Family Gatherings: A great dessert option to please guests of all ages.
• Special Occasions: Make them for holidays or birthdays, adding fun variations.
• Weekend Baking: An ideal recipe to unwind and fill your kitchen with sweet aromas.

How to Make the Perfect Gluten Free Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Ingredients

Plain Gluten-Free Shortbread Cookies

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose gluten-free flour blend (Better Batter used)

• 3/4 teaspoon xanthan gum (omit if your blend already includes it)

• 1/4 cup cornstarch

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt

• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• Lukewarm water, by the 1/2 teaspoon as needed

Mocha Shortbread Cookies

• 1 recipe Shortbread Cookie Dry Mix (above)

• 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (natural or Dutch-processed)

• 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder

• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• Lukewarm water, by the 1/2 teaspoon as needed

Berry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies

• 1 recipe Shortbread Cookie Dry Mix (above)

• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 2 tablespoons chopped dried berries (cranberries or dried cherries)

• 2 tablespoons miniature semi-sweet chocolate chips

• Lukewarm water, by the 1/2 teaspoon as needed

• 2 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, melted (for drizzling)

Toffee Caramel Shortbread Cookies

• 1 recipe Shortbread Cookie Dry Mix (above)

• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 1/3 cup toffee bits

• Lukewarm water, by the 1/2 teaspoon as needed

• 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, melted (for dipping)

• 8 Kraft caramels, melted with 2 teaspoons milk (for drizzling)

• Coarse salt (for sprinkling)

Glazed Lemon Shortbread Cookies

• 1 recipe Shortbread Cookie Dry Mix (above)

• 2 teaspoons finely grated lemon peel

• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (plus more by the 1/8 teaspoon if needed)

• Lukewarm water, by the 1/4 teaspoon as needed

• Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar

  • Lemon juice, as needed to reach drizzling consistency

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Shortbread Cookie Dry Mix

1. Whisk together gluten-free flour blend, xanthan gum (if needed), cornstarch, sugar, and salt.

2. Use this mix as the base for all variations.

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2. Plain Shortbread Cookies

1. Combine the dry mix with softened butter.

2. Knead until the dough forms.

3. Add lukewarm water in tiny amounts only if needed to bring the dough together.

4. Roll into logs and slice, or shape as desired.

5. Bake until lightly golden.

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3. Mocha Shortbread Cookies

1. Add cocoa powder and instant espresso powder to the dry mix.

2. Mix in the softened butter.

3. Knead until the dough comes together, adding a few drops of water if needed.

4. Shape into logs, slice, and bake.

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4. Berry Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies

1. Prepare the plain dough.

2. Fold in chopped dried berries and mini chocolate chips.

3. Shape, slice, and bake.

4. Drizzle with melted chocolate after cooling.

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5. Toffee Caramel Shortbread Cookies

1. Prepare the dry mix with softened butter.

2. Mix in toffee bits.

3. Shape and bake.

4. Dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate.

5. Drizzle melted caramel over the top.

6. Sprinkle coarse salt to finish

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6. Glazed Lemon Shortbread Cookies

1. Add lemon peel and lemon juice to the dry mix and butter

2. Knead, adding tiny amounts of water if needed.

3. Shape and bake.

4. Mix confectioners’ sugar with lemon juice to form a glaze.

5. Drizzle over cooled cookies.

   
   

For People with Diabetes: Sugar Substitutes

If you’re looking for sugar substitutes, you can try options such as stevia, monk fruit, or allulose. However, avoid using honey or maple syrup, as they may not provide the same texture or sweetness desired for gluten-free baking.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters (optional)

Top Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Use Cold Butter: For flakier cookies, keep your butter cold until ready to mix in.
• Do Not Overmix: Once combined, mix just until the dough comes together to keep the texture tender.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate shaped dough for an hour to help maintain its shape while baking.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to try different extracts or spices for unique flavor profiles!

Storing and Reheating Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
• Freezer: Freeze cookies individually or in a container for up to three months.
• Reheating: Bake in a preheated oven for 5 minutes to refresh them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Too much flour can make your cookies dry; always measure properly.
• Skipping the Xanthan Gum: If your gluten-free blend doesn’t include it, don’t omit it—it helps bind the cookies.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on them; shortbread should be lightly golden, not dark brown.

FAQs About Gluten Free Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Can I substitute butter with coconut oil?
Yes, you can use coconut oil, but it will alter the taste slightly.

Is it okay to leave out the xanthan gum?
No, unless your flour blend already contains it; it provides the necessary texture.

Can I make these cookies vegan?
It depends; you can substitute butter with a plant-based alternative but monitor moisture levels.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes, chopped nuts can be a lovely addition to the dough!

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Gluten Free Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Baking gluten-free shortbread cookies is like wrapping yourself in a warm, sweet hug. From the buttery richness to the delightful crunch, I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. If you’ve tried it or plan to, please comment below or share your thoughts with friends! Happy baking!

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