There’s something SO satisfying about a simple, buttery cookie.
No fancy frosting or a million sprinkles. Just pure, delicious flavor.
When it comes to simple-but-perfect cookies, shortbread is the absolute KING.
It’s usually made with just three or four ingredients, but the result is a rich, crumbly cookie that just melts in your mouth.
But simple doesn’t mean boring. Not at all.
Shortbread is the PERFECT base for all kinds of amazing flavors, shapes, and mix-ins.
I’ve put together a list of the best shortbread cookie recipes that show just how versatile this humble cookie can be.
From classic recipes to fun and modern twists, there’s a new favorite here for everyone.
1. Scottish Shortbread Cookies
Scottish Shortbread Cookies are rich, buttery, and tender with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Just a few simple ingredients make these classic shortbread cookies perfect for any occasion.
2. Slice and Bake Key Lime Shortbread Cookies
Slice and Bake Key Lime Shortbread Cookies deliver a zesty, sweet treat with a hint of citrus.
These quick and easy cookies are a bright, refreshing choice for spring and summer.
3. Lemon Lavender Cookies – Shortbread Cookies with Lemon Glaze
Lemon Lavender Cookies with Lemon Glaze combine floral notes and citrus in a soft, buttery shortbread.
They’re an easy, elegant treat that’s perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
4. Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies – Easy Cookie Recipe!
Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies are sweet, soft, and rich with a warm, toasty flavor.
This three-ingredient recipe makes a simple yet delicious cookie that’s easy to love.
5. Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies
Chocolate Orange Shortbread Cookies blend dark chocolate chunks with bright orange zest.
These flavorful biscuits are a must-try for fans of sweet and tangy treats.
6. Shortbread Cookies
Shortbread Cookies are buttery, crisp, and melt in your mouth with every bite.
Just six simple ingredients come together for a timeless classic.
7. Brown Butter Shortbread Cookies
Brown Butter Shortbread Cookies have a deep, nutty flavor from the toasted butter.
These simple, delicious cookies are a great addition to any holiday cookie tray.
8. Gluten-Free Matcha Shortbread Cookies
Gluten-Free Matcha Shortbread Cookies are creamy, buttery, and beautifully green with a delicate matcha taste.
Perfect for special occasions, they’re both gluten-free and easily made vegan.
9. Shortbread Cookies Recipe
These shortbread cookies are rich, buttery, and perfectly crumbly with a hint of pecan for extra depth.
They’re easy to make and always a hit at gatherings or when you just need a simple treat.
Pecan shortbread cookies that feel like a cozy hug in every bite.
10. Shortbread Cookies
These copycat Shortbread Cookies are inspired by Ted Lasso’s baked biscuits but even better.
With a simple list of ingredients and a soft, buttery texture, they’re perfect for any occasion.
They’re the kind of cookies you’ll want to keep on hand.
11. Strawberry shortbread cookies
Strawberry shortbread cookies are soft, buttery, and packed with fresh strawberry flavor.
They’re lightly sweet and just the right size for a quick snack or dessert.
Ideal for fans of fruity, tender cookies with a homey touch.
12. Chocolate Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies
Chocolate Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies are rich, buttery, and full of melty chocolate chips.
They have a satisfying crunch and melt in your mouth with every bite.
This is a no-fuss recipe for chocolate lovers who want deep flavor.
13. Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Lavender shortbread cookies have a gentle floral touch that pairs perfectly with the buttery base.
They’re delicate, soft, and just sweet enough to enjoy without being heavy.
A calming treat that’s great with tea or coffee.
14. Slice and Bake Lavender Shortbread Cookies with Vanilla Icing
These Slice and Bake Lavender Shortbread Cookies with Vanilla Icing are tender, fragrant, and sweet.
The floral lavender flavor shines through, softened by a soft vanilla glaze.
Perfect for spring and summer afternoons or a gift for someone you love.
15. Chocolate Shortbread Cookies
Chocolate Shortbread Cookies are rich, buttery, and packed with deep chocolate flavor.
They melt in your mouth and deliver a satisfying, simple treat every time.
A must-try for anyone who loves classic chocolate cookies.
16. Spiced Chocolate Shortbread Cookies
Spiced Chocolate Shortbread Cookies blend warm cinnamon and a hint of cayenne with rich chocolate.
They’re buttery, slightly spicy, and deeply satisfying with every bite.
Great for chilling winter days or when you want a cozy twist on a classic.
17. Coconut Shortbread Cookies
Coconut Shortbread Cookies deliver a soft, buttery bite with a sweet coconut kick.
A hint of lemon and toasted coconut make each cookie extra flavorful and so good to share.
18. Ghraybeh (Middle Eastern Shortbread Cookies)
Ghraybeh brings a light, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s perfect with tea or coffee.
This traditional Middle Eastern shortbread is simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
19. Jam Thumbprint Shortbread Cookies
Jam Thumbprint Shortbread Cookies are rich, buttery, and filled with your favorite jam.
The sweet-tart filling pairs perfectly with the delicate shortbread base.
20. Homemade Hawaiian Shortbread Cookies
Homemade Hawaiian Shortbread Cookies blend buttery richness with chunks of chocolate and macadamia nuts.
They taste like a tropical getaway in every bite—perfect for treats or gifts.
21. Easy Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies
Easy Brown Sugar Shortbread Cookies are crisp, sweet, and made with just four simple ingredients.
Their warm, slightly caramel-like flavor makes them ideal for any gathering.
22. Chocolate Peppermint Shortbread Cookies
Chocolate Peppermint Shortbread Cookies are crunchy, chocolatey, and lightly speckled with mint chips.
They bring a festive twist to classic shortbread—great for the holidays.