Gluten Free Shortbread: The BEST, Easiest Recipe EVER

January 23, 2026

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gluten free shortbread. Is there anything more comforting than a melt in your mouth buttery cookie? This recipe takes the classic shortbread cookie and makes it accessible to everyone. Whether you avoid gluten or simply want to try something new, this gluten free shortbread recipe is for you.

I remember my grandmother making shortbread during the holidays. The aroma of butter and sugar filling the kitchen, a promise of sweet treats to come. I’ve adapted her recipe to be gluten free, ensuring those with dietary restrictions can enjoy this simple pleasure. Now you can too, why not give it a try today!

Why You Will Love This gluten free shortbread Recipe

This gluten free shortbread recipe will become your new go to solution when you want a simple satisfying treat. These cookies are delightfully tender and have an almost crumbly texture to them. The buttery flavor is just divine.

This recipe takes minimal effort using simple ingredients you most likely already have in your pantry. In under an hour, you can have a fresh batch of warm gluten free shortbread ready to enjoy with a cup of tea.

This gluten free recipe is special because it captures the essence of traditional shortbread while catering to those avoiding gluten. It’s a delicious way to share a classic treat with everyone, making sure no one misses out on this simple, comforting cookie. Why not try these wonderful cookies along with another of our favorite cookies, Easy Gluten Free Cookies 4, when you want more than just one variety to choose from!

gluten free shortbread - Detail or variation — Close-up detail

Ingredients Needed for This gluten free shortbread Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible gluten free cookies:

*For the Shortbread:*

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 cups gluten free all purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

How to Make This gluten free shortbread Recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This may take a few minutes, but it’s key to a tender shortbread.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten free 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.
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface (using gluten free flour). Gently pat the dough into a circle or rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick.
7. Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes, or simply cut into squares or rectangles with a knife.
8. Place the cookies onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as gluten free baked goods can brown quickly.
10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve This gluten free shortbread Recipe

These cookies are perfect with a cup of tea or coffee. Try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert.

Dust them with extra powdered sugar for an appealing look. Arrange on a platter and offer a variety of flavors for a delicious dessert offering! They pair really well with a nice Gluten Free Cheesecake 6 after a long day.

Why not enjoy them with a glass of cold milk for a late night snack?

How to Store This gluten free shortbread Recipe

Store these gluten free cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before serving. Be sure they are stored where no sneaky hands can get to them!

Tips to Make This gluten free shortbread Recipe

Use high quality butter for the best flavor.
Don’t overmix the dough, or the shortbread will be tough.
If the dough is too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
For a festive touch, add a sprinkle of colored sugar before baking.
Using an oven thermometer is also helpful to ensure accurate baking

Helpful Notes for This gluten free shortbread Recipe

Make sure your gluten free flour blend contains xanthan gum for the best results. Xanthan gum helps bind the ingredients together in the absence of gluten. Softened butter is key the butter should be easy to press but not melted.

Variation of This gluten free shortbread Recipe

For a chocolate twist, add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients. To add some citrus flavor, try adding the zest of one lemon or orange to the dough.

For a seasonal twist, try adding 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg to the dough during the holidays. You can also use different cookie cutters to create fun shapes for any occasion!

What makes this shortbread recipe gluten free?

This recipe uses a gluten-free flour blend instead of traditional wheat flour, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or Celiac disease. The texture and flavor remain remarkably similar to traditional shortbread.

Can I use any gluten-free flour blend for this shortbread?

While most gluten-free blends will work, it’s best to use one that contains xanthan gum for improved binding and texture. An all-purpose gluten-free blend designed for baking is ideal.

How do I prevent my gluten free shortbread from being crumbly?

Using the proper ratio of butter to flour and chilling the dough before baking are key to preventing crumbly shortbread. Also, avoid overbaking the cookies to maintain their delicate texture.

What is the secret to making shortbread melt in your mouth?

Using high-quality butter and avoiding overmixing the dough are essential for a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Additionally, baking at a lower temperature allows the butter to gently melt and create a tender crumb.