3-Ingredient Shortbread Cookies with Dulce de Leche

These shortbread cookies are the perfect balance of buttery richness with the sweet addition of creamy dulce de leche. The simplicity of the recipe makes it accessible to bakers of all levels, yet the flavor feels indulgent and sophisticated. Whether you’re serving them for a festive occasion or enjoying them as an afternoon treat, these cookies are sure to be a hit!

The delicate texture of the shortbread, combined with the smooth, caramel-like dulce de leche, creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience. They’re the perfect cookie for any dessert lover, and you can easily make a big batch for sharing with family and friends. For an extra special touch, drizzle some more dulce de leche on top or sprinkle with a little sea salt!

Full Recipe:

1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
1/4 cup (60g) dulce de leche

Directions:

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add in the flour, mixing until combined and dough forms.
Roll dough into small balls (about 1-inch) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make a small indentation in the center of each cookie.
Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of dulce de leche into each indentation.
Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes | Total Time: 25-28 minutes
Kcal: 160 kcal per cookie | Servings: 20 cookies

The Appeal of 3-Ingredient Shortbread Cookies with Dulce de Leche

Shortbread cookies are a beloved treat that has captured the hearts of cookie lovers around the world. Their delicate, buttery texture and slightly crumbly consistency make them a perfect base for many variations. However, when paired with dulce de leche, these humble cookies become something truly special. Dulce de leche, a rich caramel-like sauce made from sweetened condensed milk, brings a depth of flavor and sweetness that complements the simplicity of shortbread perfectly. This recipe offers an easy yet indulgent dessert that anyone can make, whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen.

A Brief History of Shortbread Cookies

Shortbread cookies have a long and rich history, tracing their origins to Scotland in the 12th century. These buttery treats were originally made with just three basic ingredients—flour, butter, and sugar—making them a simple yet luxurious snack. The name “shortbread” comes from the word “short,” which refers to the crumbly texture of the cookie. Shortbread was traditionally enjoyed during special occasions like Christmas and weddings, but over time, it became a popular treat all year round. Today, shortbread has evolved into many variations, with different flavors and fillings, such as the addition of dulce de leche in this recipe.

The Magic of Dulce de Leche

Dulce de leche, which means “sweet milk” in Spanish, is a sweet, creamy caramelized sauce made from slow-cooking sweetened condensed milk. While it’s a staple in Latin American desserts, it has found its way into many global recipes due to its rich, smooth texture and indulgent sweetness. When used in cookies, especially in combination with shortbread, dulce de leche transforms an already delicious treat into something even more decadent. Its creamy consistency creates the perfect filling, complementing the crumbly nature of the shortbread.

Why This 3-Ingredient Shortbread Cookie Recipe Works

This recipe for 3-ingredient shortbread cookies with dulce de leche works because it balances simplicity with flavor. The combination of butter, powdered sugar, and flour results in a cookie that’s rich but not overly sweet. The addition of dulce de leche in the center brings in the perfect amount of sweetness and a smooth, caramel flavor that melts in your mouth. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ease and the few ingredients required. You don’t need to be a professional baker to make these cookies—just follow the simple instructions and you’ll have a batch of delightful cookies to enjoy.

Tips for Making Perfect Shortbread Cookies

While this recipe is simple, there are a few tips to ensure your shortbread cookies turn out perfectly every time:

Use Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before mixing. This will help the butter incorporate smoothly with the sugar and flour, giving your cookies the perfect texture.
Don’t Overwork the Dough: Shortbread dough can be sensitive. Overmixing the dough can lead to cookies that are too tough. Mix just until the dough comes together, and then stop.
Chill the Dough (Optional): While not mandatory, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help the cookies hold their shape better and prevent spreading.
Bake at a Low Temperature: Shortbread cookies bake best at a lower temperature. This allows them to bake evenly and gives them that delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Fill the Indentations with Care: When pressing your thumb into the dough to create the indentation for the dulce de leche, be gentle. You want a small well that’s deep enough to hold the filling but not too deep that the cookie breaks.

Making These Cookies Your Own

One of the great things about this 3-ingredient shortbread cookie recipe is that it is incredibly versatile. While dulce de leche is a fantastic choice for the filling, you can get creative with other spreads or toppings if you want to mix things up. Here are a few variations to consider:

Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: If you love the combination of chocolate and caramel, try replacing the dulce de leche with a spoonful of chocolate hazelnut spread like Nutella.
Fruit Jam: For a fruity twist, try filling the indentations with your favorite jam or fruit preserves, such as raspberry or strawberry. The tartness of the fruit will balance the sweetness of the shortbread perfectly.
Lemon Curd: For a citrusy twist, try filling the cookies with lemon curd. This will add a refreshing tang that contrasts nicely with the richness of the shortbread.
Add Nuts: For some extra crunch and flavor, try sprinkling chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, on top of the dulce de leche before baking. The nuts add texture and a slightly toasted flavor to the cookies.

When to Serve These Cookies

3-ingredient shortbread cookies with dulce de leche are perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are a few ideas for when to serve them:

Holiday Gatherings: These cookies are ideal for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any holiday celebration. Their rich, buttery flavor and sweet filling make them a festive treat that will impress your guests.
Tea Time: Shortbread cookies are traditionally served with tea, and this version is no exception. Pair these cookies with a hot cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Gifts: If you’re looking for a simple yet thoughtful gift, these cookies make an excellent homemade gift. Package them in a cute tin or jar with a ribbon, and you’ve got a charming gift for friends, family, or coworkers.
Snack or Dessert: Whether you’re indulging in an afternoon snack or looking for a sweet dessert after dinner, these shortbread cookies are the perfect choice. Their small size makes them easy to enjoy in one or two bites.

Storing and Freezing Your Cookies

If you have any leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), these cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies. Simply place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they’ll stay fresh for up to three months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for 30 minutes or so, and they’ll be ready to enjoy again.

Conclusion

3-ingredient shortbread cookies with dulce de leche are the perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence. With their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and the rich, caramel sweetness of dulce de leche, they are a treat that anyone can enjoy, whether for a special occasion or a simple snack. The best part? They’re easy to make and require minimal ingredients, making them a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced bakers. With a little creativity, you can make this recipe your own by experimenting with different fillings and variations. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a tea party, or just for yourself, these cookies are sure to be a hit every time.

Let your oven work its magic and enjoy these delightful shortbread cookies with dulce de leche—you won’t regret it!