Gluten Free Shortbread: The Secret to Easy, Perfect Cookies

December 30, 2025

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Gluten free shortbread. The mere mention of those three words conjures up the scent of warm butter, the taste of crumbly perfection, and a feeling of pure comfort that only a simple, perfectly executed treat can provide. This recipe isn't just about creating something gluten free, it is all about rediscovering a classic, making it accessible to everyone, and experiencing the joy of sharing something utterly delicious.

My grandmother, a champion baker, always had a stack of shortbread cookies ready for unexpected guests. Sadly, with family members developing gluten sensitivities, those cherished moments felt out of reach. I decided to recreate a gluten free version that honors her legacy while meeting everybody’s needs, and that's how this gluten free shortbread was born.

Why You Will Love This gluten free shortbread Recipe

This gluten free shortbread recipe is more than just a substitute; it's an evolution. The buttery, melt in your mouth texture you expect from traditional shortbread is delivered here, without any compromise. I've perfected the combination of gluten free flours to avoid any undesirable grittiness or strange aftertastes. These simple cookies provide immense satisfaction.

What makes this recipe particularly special to me is remembering my grandmother watching visitors happily devour her shortbread. Also, this recipe is simple to prep, mixes quickly and has minimal ingredients. This is perfect for a busy baker like me! These cookies elevate an ordinary evening, making it feel special. Also, if you are looking for more gluten free treats, check out these Easy Gluten Free Cookies.

Ingredients Needed for This gluten free shortbread Recipe

Here’s everything you need to create this delightful recipe:

For the Shortbread:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups (240g) gluten free all purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum)
- ¼ cup (30g) rice flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make This gluten free shortbread Recipe

Follow these simple steps:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes with an electric mixer.
Add the vanilla extract and mix until just combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten free flour blend and rice flour. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface (using gluten free flour). Gently pat the dough into a circle about ½ inch thick.
Use a cookie cutter or a knife to cut out your desired shapes. Alternatively, you can press the dough into a pie plate, bake it, and then slice it into wedges after baking.
Place the shortbread cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each cookie.
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Baking time could vary depending on your oven.

Let the shortbread 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 gluten free shortbread cookies are fantastic with a cup of tea or coffee. They also pair well with fresh fruit, such as berries or peaches. For an extra touch of elegance, dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle them with melted chocolate.

Consider serving them alongside other gluten free treats for a dessert platter that caters to all dietary needs. These cookies also go well with these Easy Gluten Free Bars 3.

How to Store This gluten free shortbread Recipe

To maintain their crispness, store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week.

For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Frozen shortbread can last up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Tips to Make This gluten free shortbread Recipe

Ingredient Swaps: For a dairy free version, use a plant based butter substitute. Ensure the butter substitute works well for baking.
Success Tips: Don’t overmix the dough. Overmixing can result in tough shortbread.
Common Mistakes: Avoid using gluten free flour without xanthan gum unless the recipe already includes it. Xanthan gum helps bind the gluten free flours, providing structure.
Pro Tips: Chill the dough for 30 minutes before cutting out shapes. This helps prevent the shortbread from spreading too much during baking.

Helpful Notes for This gluten free shortbread Recipe

Gluten free flour blends can vary, so choose one that’s designed for baking. These blends often have a combination of rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch.

When measuring the flour, use the spoon and level method to avoid packing too much flour into the measuring cup. Overmeasuring flour can lead to dry shortbread.

Variation of This gluten free shortbread Recipe

Lemon Zest: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a burst of citrus flavor.
Chocolate Chip: Mix in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
Lavender: Infuse your shortbread with a delicate floral aroma by adding 1 teaspoon of dried culinary lavender to the dough.
Gluten Free Blueberry Hand Pies: This can be used as an ingredient in these Gluten Free Blueberry Hand Pies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes gluten free shortbread different from traditional shortbread?

Gluten free shortbread uses a gluten-free flour blend instead of wheat flour. This substitution requires careful consideration of the flour blend’s composition to achieve the same crumbly texture as traditional shortbread.

How do I prevent my gluten free shortbread from being too dry?

Ensure you use the correct ratio of butter to flour and avoid over-baking. Using a high-quality butter and chilling the dough before baking can also help prevent dryness.

What is the best gluten free flour blend for shortbread?

A blend containing rice flour, tapioca starch, and almond flour typically works well for gluten free shortbread. Experiment with different blends to find one that suits your taste and texture preferences.

Can I add flavorings to my gluten free shortbread?

Yes, you can add flavorings like vanilla extract, lemon zest, or almond extract. Just be mindful of the liquid content and adjust the dry ingredients accordingly to maintain the proper consistency.

How long does gluten free shortbread last?

Gluten free shortbread can typically last for up to a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. The cookies may become slightly softer over time.

Conclusion

Crafting this gluten free shortbread has been a delightful journey back to simpler times, filled with the aroma of baking and the warmth of shared recipes. It’s a testament to how we can honor traditions while embracing dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can partake in the joy of a perfectly baked treat. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the simple pleasure of homemade gluten free shortbread. Let me know how they turn out for you or if you have any variations you'd love to share!