When you think of indulgent yet simplistic baking, 3-Ingredient Shortbread Cookies with Dulce de Leche effortlessly fits the bill. This recipe is a delightful showcase of how just a few quality ingredients can transform into something truly delicious. Simplifying the art of baking, this recipe requires only butter, powdered sugar, and all-purpose flour to craft the base of a classic shortbread dough. The real magic, however, is in the addition of luscious dulce de leche, which adds a unique caramel sweetness that elevates each bite to gourmet status. It’s perfectly balanced, making these cookies a sensational treat, whether you’re serving them after dinner or gifting them to friends.
The allure of these cookies extends beyond their rich, buttery texture. They offer a sense of nostalgia that only a well-crafted cookie can provide. The silky texture paired with the sweet, gooey center turns every bite into a melt-in-your-mouth experience that feels both comforting and luxurious. Despite their sophisticated taste, these cookies are surprisingly easy to make, making them accessible and fun for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re new to baking or looking to impress at your next gathering, these cookies provide the perfect solution—simple yet impressive, modest but memorable.
Why You’ll Love This 3-Ingredient Shortbread Cookies with Dulce de Leche
These cookies aren’t just delicious; they’re also incredibly easy to prepare! Here are some reasons why you might find yourself falling in love with them:
- Minimal Ingredients: Just three basic ingredients, plus dulce de leche, make this recipe straightforward and quick.
- Rich Flavor: The buttery shortbread paired with sweet dulce de leche creates a wonderfully indulgent flavor profile.
- Perfect Texture: Enjoy a delicate, crumbly shortbread with a creamy, caramel-like filling.
- Versatile Treat: Dress them up with a drizzle of more dulce de leche or a sprinkle of sea salt for a touch of elegance.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Setting up your kitchen and gathering the right tools is the first step to a successful baking experience with these cookies. Since this recipe is straightforward, you won’t need any fancy equipment, but following the setup tips below can help streamline your baking process:
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C) to ensure it’s fully heated by the time your dough is ready. Gather a large mixing bowl and a hand or stand mixer, as this will be key to achieving the smooth, creamy consistency of the butter and sugar mixture.
Prepare your baking area with a parchment-lined baking sheet to lay out the cookies as you shape them. Have a small spoon or thumb ready to create indentations in every cookie—a simple step that turns the ordinary into extraordinary once filled with dulce de leche.
Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature. This will make mixing with powdered sugar much easier and more effective, yielding a creamy base. After forming your dough, a small cookie scoop can help maintain uniformity in size as you prepare the balls for baking.
Ingredients
Gather these basic ingredients for a batch of these delectable cookies:
- 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
Instructions
Step 1: Create The Base
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier. In a large bowl, blend the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. This mixture will create the perfect creamy base for your cookies.
Step 2: Form The Dough
Gradually add in your all-purpose flour to the butter and sugar mixture. Use a spatula or low-speed mixer to combine everything gently until the ingredients form a soft dough without overmixing. Properly mixing ensures a soft and tender cookie.
Step 3: Shape & Fill
Roll dough into small 1-inch balls using your hands and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Press gently using your thumb or the back of a spoon to create an indentation in each cookie center. Fill each with about 1/2 teaspoon of dulce de leche.
Step 4: Baking
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes. Look for lightly golden edges as a sign they’re done. Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack, letting them cool completely.
Variations
Add a personal touch to your cookies with these creative variations:
- Protein: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, into the dough for a crunchy twist.
- Vegetables: For a unique spin, try adding finely grated carrots or zucchini for subtle flavor and added moisture.
- Spices: Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, aromatic depth enhancing the dulce de leche.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for even blending.
- To prevent the sticky dulce de leche from clumping during filling, use a small spoon to carefully spoon it into each indentation.
Serving Suggestions
Present these cookies with flair:
- Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea to complement the caramel flavors.
- Dust with additional powdered sugar for a sweet finish followed by a side of whipped cream.
Tips
- To prevent cookies from spreading too much, chill the dough balls for 10 minutes before baking.
- Use a small cookie scoop for consistent sizing and even baking.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 30-33 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approx. 120 per cookie
- Protein: 1g per cookie
- Sodium: Very low
FAQs
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but you may want to reduce any added salt in the recipe to prevent the cookies from tasting overly salty.
Is there a substitute for dulce de leche?
Creamy caramel or even Nutella can serve as tasty alternatives to dulce de leche.
How to store these cookies properly?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for up to three months.
Can dough be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to two days before baking.
Conclusion
In the world of cookies, these 3-Ingredient Shortbread Cookies with Dulce de Leche stand as a testament to the idea that simplicity can lead to some of the best culinary delights. The combination of buttery shortbread and rich dulce de leche is indeed a crowd-pleaser, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without much fuss. Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced one, this quick-to-make recipe invites you to enjoy homemade baking with ease. Don’t forget to experiment with variations and share your experiences with friends and family for a memorable sensory experience! We’d love to hear about your baking journey in the comments below or see your creative twists!
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3-Ingredient Shortbread Cookies with Dulce de Leche
- Total Time: Approximately 30-33 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
Description
A simple yet indulgent treat, these cookies feature luscious dulce de leche encased in buttery shortbread.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, blend the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Gradually add in your all-purpose flour to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing gently to form a soft dough.
- Roll dough into small 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Press gently to create an indentation in each cookie center and fill with dulce de leche.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Chill the dough balls for 10 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: Approx. 120 per cookie
- Sodium: Very low
- Protein: 1g per cookie