Table of Contents
Description
These keto shortbread cookies are buttery, sugar-free, and low-carb — a classic cookie made guilt-free and perfect for any occasion!
Introduction
There’s something timeless and comforting about shortbread cookies. That rich, buttery flavor and delicate crumb instantly bring back memories of holidays, cozy afternoons, and homemade treats shared with loved ones. But if you’re following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, traditional shortbread can feel completely off-limits. That’s exactly why these keto shortbread cookies deserve a permanent spot in your recipe collection.
This easy recipe recreates everything you love about classic shortbread — the tender texture, the subtle sweetness, and that melt-in-your-mouth finish — without the sugar or refined flour. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, these cookies are keto-friendly, sugar-free, gluten-free, and incredibly satisfying.
Whether you’re baking for the holidays, prepping snacks for the week, or just craving something sweet with your coffee, these keto shortbread cookies fit perfectly into your routine. They’re elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for beginner bakers. One bite, and you’ll forget they’re low-carb at all. 🍪✨
Recipe Equipment
Before you start baking, gather these kitchen essentials:
- Mixing bowl
- Electric hand mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie cutter or knife
- Cooling rack
Recipe Stat Sheet (Quick Overview)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | American |
| Course | Dessert |
| Diet | Keto, Low-Carb |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 12–15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | 12 cookies |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Net Carbs | ~2g per cookie |
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond flour (fine, blanched)
- ¼ cup powdered keto sweetener (erythritol or monk fruit)
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Why These Ingredients Work
Almond flour provides a tender crumb without carbs, while butter delivers the signature richness that makes shortbread irresistible.
Ingredient Notes
- Almond Flour: Use finely milled almond flour for the smoothest texture. Avoid almond meal.
- Keto Sweetener: Powdered sweetener blends seamlessly and prevents graininess.
- Butter: High-quality butter enhances flavor — grass-fed works beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth without overpowering the cookie.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven.
Set your oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Mix dry ingredients.
In a bowl, combine almond flour, powdered sweetener, and salt. - Cream the butter.
In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter until light and creamy. - Combine everything.
Add vanilla extract to the butter, then slowly mix in the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms. - Shape the dough.
Roll the dough between parchment paper to about ¼-inch thickness. - Cut cookies.
Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut desired shapes and place them on the baking sheet. - Bake to perfection.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. - Cool completely.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a rack — they firm up as they cool.
Pro Tips / Variations
- Lemon Twist: Add lemon zest for a fresh, bright flavor.
- Chocolate Dip: Dip half of each cookie in sugar-free dark chocolate.
- Holiday Style: Sprinkle with keto-friendly cinnamon sugar.
- Extra Crunch: Add chopped keto nuts like pecans or almonds.
- Softer Cookies: Bake slightly less for a tender bite.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or vegan butter alternatives.
- Make Ahead: Dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with coffee or tea for a cozy treat ☕
- Pair with keto ice cream for an elegant dessert
- Add to holiday cookie trays
- Enjoy as a light after-dinner sweet
- Gift them in jars for keto-friendly celebrations
Storage Information
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 7 days
- Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months
- Reheating: Let thaw naturally for best texture
Nutrition Facts (Per Cookie – Estimated)
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 11g
- Protein: 3g
- Total Carbs: 3g
- Net Carbs: ~2g
- Sugar: 0g
These keto shortbread cookies prove that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor to stay on track. They’re buttery, tender, and satisfyingly sweet — everything a classic cookie should be, without the carbs. 🍪💛
Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turned out! Leave a comment, share with fellow keto friends, or save it for later — because everyone deserves a sweet moment, even on keto.