When You Need Classic Shortbread Cookies Without a Mixer, This Recipe Works

Sometimes the best comfort food comes from the simplest moments in the kitchen. These classic shortbread cookies don’t require a mixer or any complicated gadgets — just your hands and a little patience. The dough feels soft and pliable, almost like playdough, and the scent of butter and vanilla fills the air as you gently press it into shape. I remember once getting distracted halfway through rolling out the dough, my mind wandering to what drink to pair these with. Maybe a cup of tea? Or something a little stronger? Either way, the quiet, buttery aroma pulled me back to the task at hand.

Pulling the tray from the oven, the edges of the cookies had just the faintest hint of golden brown, and the crumbly texture was irresistible. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like an old friend — straightforward, dependable, and satisfying. There’s something calming about making these cookies by hand; it’s almost like a little ritual that slows time down.

• These cookies are buttery and crumbly, exactly as shortbread should be.
• No mixer is needed, making it easy for anyone to try—though it does mean a bit of extra arm work.
• The recipe uses minimal ingredients, so you likely already have everything on hand.
• It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point.
• The fork pricks on top aren’t just for looks; they keep the cookies flat and delicate.

If you’re a little unsure about working the dough by hand, don’t worry. It’s forgiving, and a little unevenness adds character. Plus, if you’re like me, you might get sidetracked halfway through and end up with cookies that feel homemade in the best way.

Classic Shortbread Cookies Without a Mixer

Print Recipe

Deliciously buttery and crumbly shortbread cookies made easily by hand without the need for a mixer. Perfect for a simple homemade treat with minimal ingredients.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies

Ingredients

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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, use a wooden spoon or spatula to cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Add the vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture and stir until combined.
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the bowl, mixing with the spoon until the dough starts to come together.
Use your hands to gently knead the dough in the bowl until it forms a smooth ball. Avoid overworking the dough to keep the cookies tender.
Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut the dough into your desired shapes and transfer them to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Prick each cookie a few times with a fork to prevent puffing during baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

These cookies don’t require special equipment — just a rolling surface and something to cut them with. When I serve them, a simple cup of tea or coffee feels just right, but I’ve also enjoyed them alongside a slice of sharp cheddar for a surprising twist. If you want to mix it up, you could try adding a pinch of cinnamon or swapping vanilla for almond extract, though I haven’t tested these variations extensively. Sometimes I even leave the shapes a bit rustic, just cutting the dough into rough squares because, well, who’s watching?

FAQ

Can I use cold butter? It’s best to use softened butter so the dough comes together easily by hand.

Will these cookies stay fresh? Yes, in an airtight container, they keep well for about a week, or you can freeze them if you want to save some for later.

Can I add decorations? You could dust with powdered sugar after baking, but these cookies are lovely on their own.

Try making these classic shortbread cookies when you want a simple, buttery treat that feels like a little homemade luxury. Once you’ve tasted that crumbly texture, you might find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again.