Gluten Free Shortbread: The EASIEST Recipe EVER!

January 1, 2026

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gluten free shortbread, a crumbly, buttery delight, has always held a special place in my heart. It reminds me of cozy winter evenings spent with my grandmother, the aroma of baking filling her warm kitchen. She had a way of making even the simplest recipes taste extraordinary, and this gluten free shortbread is my attempt to recreate that comforting magic. It is the perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or to share with loved ones.

Why You Will Love This gluten free shortbread Recipe

This recipe is everything you want in a gluten free treat: simple, delicious and comforting. What makes this gluten free shortbread particularly special is its incredibly tender, melt in your mouth texture. It's free from gluten, but definitely not free from flavor! It's also surprisingly quick to make, no chilling of the dough is needed!

I remember one time, I needed a quick dessert for an impromptu gathering, and this recipe saved the day. Within an hour, I had warm, crumbly gluten free shortbread, and everyone raved about it. It’s a guaranteed crowd pleaser. If you are looking for another easy gluten free dessert recipe, be sure to check out my Easy Gluten Free Cupcakes 3.

Ingredients Needed for This gluten free shortbread Recipe

1 cup (120g) gluten free all purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum)
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make This gluten free shortbread Recipe

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the vanilla extract and salt. Mix until combined.
Gradually add the gluten free all purpose flour to the bowl, mixing on low speed until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
Press the dough evenly into an 8 inch square baking pan.
Use a fork to prick the surface of the dough evenly. This helps prevent the shortbread from puffing up too much during baking.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares or triangles.

How to Serve This gluten free shortbread Recipe

Serve this gluten free shortbread with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a classic pairing. For a more decadent treat, drizzle with melted chocolate or caramel sauce. A simple dusting of powdered sugar also adds a touch of elegance.

It's also a wonderful accompaniment to fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Consider pairing with a glass of dessert wine for a sophisticated finish.

How to Store This gluten free shortbread Recipe

Store the cooled gluten free shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the shortbread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer safe bag or container. Frozen shortbread can last for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. Shortbread is also delicious served with my Gluten Free Cheesecake 4.

Tips to Make This gluten free shortbread Recipe

Use a high quality gluten free all purpose flour blend for the best texture. Make sure it contains xanthan gum.
Don't overmix the dough, as this can result in a tough shortbread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Pricking the surface of the dough with a fork helps prevent it from puffing up during baking.
For a more intense flavor, try using brown butter. Simply melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, cooking until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Let it cool slightly before using in the recipe. Why not also try my Easy Gluten Free Bars 2.

Helpful Notes for This gluten free shortbread Recipe

Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This will ensure that it creams properly with the sugar.
If your dough is too crumbly to press into the pan, add a tablespoon of milk or water at a time until it comes together.
Watch the shortbread closely during baking, as it can burn easily. If the edges start to brown too quickly, cover the pan with foil.

Variation of This gluten free shortbread Recipe

For a seasonal twist, add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. You can also incorporate other spices, such as cardamom or ginger.

Try adding mix ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts or dried fruit for a different flavor profile. Drizzling with your favorite flavored icing or topping is another great way to level up this gluten free shortbread recipe. We also have several Gluten Free Cheesecake variations on the blog. Follow us on Pinterest to see what we are working on right now!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is gluten free shortbread made of?

Gluten free shortbread typically uses a blend of gluten free flours such as rice flour, tapioca starch, and almond flour. These are combined with butter, sugar, and sometimes a pinch of salt.

How do you keep gluten free shortbread from being dry?

Using enough butter is crucial for a moist gluten free shortbread. Also, avoid overbaking, as this can dry it out. Look for a light golden color and slightly firm texture.

Can I substitute regular flour for gluten free flour in shortbread?

No, you cannot directly substitute regular flour for gluten free flour. Gluten free flours lack gluten, which provides structure. A gluten free flour blend specifically designed for baking is necessary for the best results.

What is the best way to store gluten free shortbread?

Store your baked gluten free shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy this simple yet delicious gluten free shortbread recipe! It’s a perfect way to satisfy your sweet cravings without the gluten. Let me know in the comments if you try it and what variations you come up with!