3 Ingredient Vegan Shortbread Cookies

Need more vegan cookie recipes? Try my vegan chocolate chip cookies, vegan peanut butter cookies, vegan Christmas cookies, or vegan double chocolate cookies next. Need a no-nonsense vegan cookie recipe fit for the holiday season? I’ve got you covered. My vegan shortbread cookies have the same taste and texture as traditional shortbread cookies, except they’re made with a (very) shortlist of plant-based, wholesome ingredients.

Why I love this recipe

3 ingredients. All you need is vegan butter, powdered sugar, and flour! Quick to make. Just 5 minutes of prep is needed, and no more than 12 minutes in the oven. Easily made gluten-free. Simply swap out the flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and bam! You have vegan and gluten-free shortbread cookies. The perfect texture. They’re thick, snappable, and melt-in-your-mouth, just like classic shortbread.

Ingredients needed

Vegan butter. Be sure to use plant-based butter from a block, not a spread. You want the butter to be soft but not melted. I also tested vegan margarine, but I found it made the cookies grainy and gave them a weird aftertaste. Powdered sugar. Also known as confectioners’ sugar, powdered sugar gives the cookies a lighter and smoother texture. All-purpose flour. The base for the cookies. Sift it first to remove any clumps. If you use GF flour, make sure it has xanthan gum added, and if not, add ¼ teaspoon.

How to make vegan shortbread cookies

I’ve included step-by-step photos below to make this recipe easy to follow at home. For the full printable recipe instructions and ingredient quantities, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Step 3- Bake. Bake the cookies for 15-17 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool on the sheet completely.

Arman’s recipe tips

Make your own powdered sugar. If you don’t have any powdered sugar, you can make your own in a snap. Just blend granulated sugar until you have a fine, powdery texture. Add extracts. Almond, lemon, orange, or vanilla extract are all great options. Fold in some mix-ins. Like sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or chopped nuts. Top the cookies with a drizzle of melted chocolate and flaky sea salt.

Storage instructions

To store: Shortbread cookies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two weeks. To freeze: Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag and store them in the freezer for up to six months.