3-Ingredient Shortbread Cookies (Easy & Buttery)
An easy 3-ingredient shortbread cookie recipe made with simple pantry staples, budget-friendly, buttery, and perfect for baking with family or enjoying with a cup of tea.
RECIPESFAMILY FAVOURITESBUDGET-FRIENDLY RECIPES
12/13/20251 min read
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 15 minutes | Total: 25 minutes | Serves: 12
Best For: simple baking, afternoon tea, family treats
A Classic Biscuit Made Simple
These 3-ingredient shortbread cookies are buttery, crumbly, and incredibly easy to make. With no eggs and no fuss, they come together quickly using basic pantry staples, making them perfect for last-minute baking or cooking with kids.
They’re a timeless treat — simple, comforting, and made for sharing during quiet moments around the table or with a warm drink in hand.
Ingredients for 3-Ingredient Shortbread Cookies
125 g butter, softened
½ cup icing sugar
1½ cups plain flour
Optional:
Extra icing sugar for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the oven to 170°C (150°C fan-forced) and line a baking tray.
Cream the butter and icing sugar until light and smooth.
Mix in the flour until a soft dough forms.
Roll into small balls and place on the tray, gently flattening with a fork.
Bake for 12–15 minutes until just set and lightly golden underneath.
Cool on the tray before transferring to a wire rack.
Optional: Dust with icing sugar before serving.
Helpful Tips
Don’t overbake — shortbread should stay pale
Softened butter gives the best texture
Chill dough briefly if it feels too soft
Why This Recipe Works
Only three simple ingredients
Quick and budget-friendly
Beginner-friendly baking
Classic flavour everyone loves
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Alofa Tunoa shares budget-friendly recipes, family meals, one-pan dinners, and Pacific Island inspired food rooted in Samoan culture and faith-filled home cooking.