Gluten Free Shortbread Cookies

Delicate and tasty gluten free shortbread cookies dipped in chocolate! These Gluten Free Shortbread Cookies are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual tea time. Their rich buttery flavor and crisp texture make them a delightful treat for everyone, including those with dietary restrictions. Enjoy these cookies as a sweet snack or an elegant dessert that impresses at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these delicious cookies in no time.
• Perfect for Dipping: The soft texture of the cookies is ideal for dipping in chocolate, adding an extra layer of indulgence.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies can be enjoyed as-is or dressed up with your favorite toppings, making them suitable for any occasion.
• Allergy-Friendly: Made with dairy-free margarine and gluten-free flour, these cookies cater to various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Goodness: The buttery taste combined with the chocolate dip creates a delightful treat that melts in your mouth.

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Tools and Preparation

To successfully make these gluten free shortbread cookies, you will need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Piping bag with star tip
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows for easy combining of ingredients without spillage.
• Piping bag with star tip: This tool gives your cookies their charming shape, ensuring they bake evenly.
• Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet promotes even baking and helps prevent sticking.
• Wire rack: Cooling cookies on a wire rack prevents sogginess and keeps them crisp.

Ingredients

Delicate and tasty gluten free shortbread cookies dipped in chocolate!

Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup dairy free margarine (110g, or butter)
– 3/4 cup all-purpose gluten free flour (110g)
– 4 tbsp powdered sugar (30g)
– 1/4 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp xanthan gum (omit if your flour blend contains gum)
– 2 oz chocolate (50g, I used dairy free chocolate chips)

How to Make Gluten Free Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Read Recipe Notes

Please read the recipe notes before you start.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350ºF.

Step 3: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Add a large star tip (such as a 1M) to your piping bag.

Step 4: Mix the Butter and Sugar

Add the dairy free margarine (or softened butter if you prefer) and powdered sugar to a mixing bowl. Beat until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add in the all-purpose gluten free flour, baking powder, and xanthan gum. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.

Step 6: Pipe Out Cookies

Transfer the dough into the piping bag. Pipe out three-inch long cookie fingers onto your lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced well apart.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake for ten to fifteen minutes until they turn a pale golden color. Watch closely, as they can go from cooked to burned quickly!

Step 8: Cool on Baking Sheet

Let the cookies cool on the cookie sheet for a couple of minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Handle With Care

The cookies are very soft and fragile; be careful not to break them during handling!

Step 10: Melt Chocolate

Melt your chocolate either in the microwave or using a bowl over a pan of hot water.

Step 11: Dip Cookies in Chocolate

Dip both ends of each cookie into the melted chocolate. Leave them on the wire rack to set before serving.

How to Serve Gluten Free Shortbread Cookies

Serving gluten free shortbread cookies can enhance your dessert experience. These delicate cookies pair well with various accompaniments that complement their rich flavor.

With Tea or Coffee

• A comforting cup of tea or coffee enhances the buttery taste of the cookies.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter alongside fruits and nuts for an appealing dessert spread.

Dipped in Chocolate

• Enjoy them dipped in melted chocolate for an extra layer of sweetness and richness.

Crumbled Over Ice Cream

• Add crumbled pieces of shortbread on top of ice cream for a delightful crunch.

Gift Packaging

• Package them in a decorative box to give as a thoughtful gift during holidays or special occasions.

How to Perfect Gluten Free Shortbread Cookies

To achieve the best gluten free shortbread cookies, keep these tips in mind.

• Use quality ingredients: High-quality gluten free flour and dairy-free margarine yield better flavor and texture.

• Chill the dough: Chilling your dough before piping helps maintain shape during baking.

• Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on the cookies; they can burn easily. Aim for a pale golden color.

• Store properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.

Best Side Dishes for Gluten Free Shortbread Cookies

Pairing side dishes with gluten free shortbread cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing contrast to the buttery flavor of the cookies.

2. Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream provides a creamy texture that complements the crunch of shortbread.

3. Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote brings sweetness and moisture, making each bite delightful.

4. Cheese Plate: Include mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese for a savory touch that balances out the sweetness.

5. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce over the cookies adds indulgence and enhances their appeal.

6. Almond Milkshake: A chilled almond milkshake pairs beautifully, offering a nutty flavor that matches well with shortbread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making gluten free shortbread cookies can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong flour blend. Not all gluten free flours perform the same way. Use a good quality all-purpose gluten free flour that includes xanthan gum for best results.
• Overmixing the dough. Mixing too much can make the cookies tough. Combine ingredients just until mixed for a delicate texture.
• Not measuring accurately. Using too much or too little of an ingredient can affect the outcome. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Skipping the cooling step. Letting cookies cool on a wire rack is essential; if you skip this, they may break easily when handled.
• Ignoring baking time. Gluten free shortbread cookies can go from perfectly baked to burnt quickly. Keep an eye on them and check often.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing Gluten Free Shortbread Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to three months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Gluten Free Shortbread Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F and heat cookies for 5 minutes for a warm treat.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds, just enough to warm them up without making them soft.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat for a minute or two, turning carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about gluten free shortbread cookies that might help you while baking.

What makes these Gluten Free Shortbread Cookies special?

These cookies are not only gluten-free but also incredibly buttery with a delightful crunch that melts in your mouth.

Can I use real butter instead of dairy free margarine?

Yes, if you’re not dairy free, you can substitute dairy-free margarine with equal amounts of softened butter for a richer flavor.

How do I customize my Gluten Free Shortbread Cookies?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or spices like cinnamon to tailor the flavor to your liking!

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly, gluten free shortbread cookies can last up to one week in the refrigerator and three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These gluten free shortbread cookies offer a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy! Their buttery flavor and crisp texture make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or mix-ins for even more delicious options!