Vegan Shortbread Cookies: Easy 3-Ingredient Recipe

Craving a melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s also vegan?

Look no further! These Vegan Shortbread Cookies are the perfect answer. They’re incredibly easy to make, require just a handful of simple ingredients, and deliver that classic buttery, crumbly texture we all love. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly these cookies come together. Prepare to impress your friends and family with these delectable delights!

Why You’ll Love It

• The unbelievably buttery, rich flavor without any actual butter!
• A perfectly crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth texture that will make you want more.
• Easy and quick to prepare – perfect for when you need a sweet treat in a hurry.
• They are suitable for various occasions: holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or a simple dessert.
• These shortbreads are easily customizable with different flavors and toppings to suit your taste.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets this recipe apart is the use of coconut oil and plant-based butter, which perfectly mimic the richness and tenderness of traditional shortbread. The combination creates a light and crumbly texture that avoids any unwanted greasiness. By using maple syrup as a sweetener, we’re adding a subtle warmth to the flavor profile that is incredibly satisfying, without any refined sugars. This recipe is a delightful, vegan-friendly alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.

Ingredient List

• 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) of Vegan Butter (block style)
• 1/2 cup (113g) of Coconut Oil, melted
• 1/2 cup (120ml) Maple Syrup
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
• 3 cups (375g) All-Purpose Flour, plus more for dusting
• 1/2 tsp Salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened vegan butter and melted coconut oil using a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and well combined.
3. Add the maple syrup and vanilla extract to the mixture and mix well, until fully combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough. It will be crumbly.
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently bring it together using your hands to form a ball. If you are using cookie cutters, roll the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. If you prefer a classic look, simply flatten the ball into a disc.
7. Use a knife to score or cut out desired shapes using cookie cutters. Place each cookie onto your prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are just golden brown.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Once your shortbread cookies have cooled, you can experiment with different toppings and variations:

• Drizzle with melted vegan chocolate: Allow the cookies to cool completely and then drizzle them with melted vegan chocolate for a decadent touch.
• Sprinkle with sea salt: Add a hint of saltiness to complement the sweet and buttery flavors by sprinkling sea salt over the warm cookies,
• Dust with powdered sugar: For an elegant and classic look, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar.

Expert Tips

• Use vegan butter that comes in a stick or block form rather than the spreadable variety for best results.
• Don’t overmix the dough, as this can make the cookies tough. Mix until the dry ingredients are just incorporated.
• Avoid over-browning the cookies. The edges should be lightly golden, not deeply browned.
• For an even bake, make sure all the cookies are roughly the same size and thickness.
• If you are using cookie cutters, work quickly to avoid the dough from becoming too warm. If the dough gets too warm, place it in the fridge to chill for 15 min.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use a different type of vegan butter? Yes, but results may vary slightly. A stick or block-style vegan butter is best for replicating the classic texture.
• Can I substitute the maple syrup with another sweetener? Yes, agave or golden syrup can be used, but this may slightly change the taste and texture.
• How should I store these shortbread cookies? Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can make the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Let the dough rest at room temperature for 20 minutes before rolling it.
• Are there any substitutions for the coconut oil? You can use all vegan butter, but the coconut oil helps create the ideal crumbly texture.

Variations and Customization Options

Feel free to get creative with your vegan shortbread cookies:

• Lemon zest: Add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a zesty twist.
• Almond extract: Use 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract for a delicate almond flavor.
• Spices: Try adding ground cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg for a warming, spiced flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These Vegan Shortbread Cookies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vegan ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. These cookies make a wonderful gift when packaged in a pretty box, perfect for any occasion. Try crumbling them over your breakfast yogurt for extra flavor!

Conclusion

These Vegan Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that proves you don’t need dairy to create delicious and impressive desserts. Their buttery, crumbly texture and ease of preparation make them a must-try for everyone. So, go ahead and gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a batch of these amazing cookies! Don’t forget to share your creations with us – tag us in your photos and subscribe to our newsletter for more tasty recipes!

Related Recipes You’ll Love

• Vegan Chocolate Mint Cookies
• Vegan Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies
• Vegan Apple Cinnamon Cookies

Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes and baking tips delivered straight to your inbox!