no butter cookies recipe
The Best no butter cookies recipe
I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite cookie recipes that’s been passed down for generations. No butter cookies, also known as shortbread cookies, are a staple in many American households. The moment I take a bite, I’m transported to a simpler time when life was slower and the only thing that mattered was making delicious food for my loved ones. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is perfect for them to learn the basics of baking.
The simplicity of this cookie dough makes it an ideal choice for young hands to get involved. We always have fun mixing and measuring the ingredients together. It’s a great way to spend quality time with my family while creating memories that will last a lifetime. As we all know, cookies are a classic treat that never goes out of style.
These no butter cookies are especially special because they’re made with just a few simple ingredients: all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and cold water. I love how the absence of butter gives them a more delicate texture and flavor compared to traditional cookies. My kids adore helping me roll out the dough into small balls and then flatten them slightly into disks. They think it’s magical how something so simple can become such a tasty treat.
We often have fun experimenting with different shapes and sizes of our cookies, from hearts to animals. No butter cookies are also incredibly versatile – they’re perfect for snacking on their own or pairing with your favorite hot beverage. I often enjoy them with a warm cup of coffee on chilly mornings or as an after-school snack for my kids. But what really sets these cookies apart is their incredible shelf life.
They stay fresh for days when stored in an airtight container, making them an excellent choice for meal prep or packing in lunches. The best part about no butter cookies? They’re ridiculously easy to make! With just a few minutes of prep work and minimal cleanup, you’ll be enjoying these delicious treats in no time.
One thing I’ve learned over the years is that the key to success lies not only in using high-quality ingredients but also in mastering the technique behind rolling out the dough evenly.

No Butter Cookies
These no butter cookies are soft, chewy, and made with vegetable oil instead of butter. They are perfect for when you are out of butter or want a dairy-free treat.
🥘Ingredients
For the Cookies
👨🍳Directions
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How No Butter Cookies Works
This no butter cookies recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it is simple, quick, and uses ingredients you probably already have. It works perfectly for family gatherings, school bake sales, or just a quiet afternoon snack.
I love that I can make a batch in under 30 minutes and everyone enjoys them without missing the butter. For storage, keep these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
If you want to reheat them, pop them in a 300 degree oven for 3 to 4 minutes to bring back that fresh baked texture. You can also serve them with a glass of milk or a scoop of ice cream for a special treat.
These cookies are versatile and always a hit, so I hope you give them a try.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About No Butter Cookies
Q1: What is the purpose of using cold water instead of room temperature water?
The use of cold water helps prevent the formation of gluten in the dough, resulting in a tender crumb and delicate texture.
Q2: Can I substitute other types of sugar like brown sugar or honey?
No, it’s best to stick with granulated sugar as it provides the right balance of sweetness without affecting the texture.
Q3: Why do you recommend using all-purpose flour?
All-purpose flour has a neutral flavor and provides structure without affecting the taste or texture.
Q4: Can I make these cookies vegan by substituting eggs?
No, eggs play a crucial role in binding ingredients together; however, you can experiment with alternative binders like flaxseed or chia seeds.
Q5: How do I store leftover cookies?
Avoid storing them at room temperature; instead, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for up to two weeks.