These Keto Shortbread Cookies are buttery, crumbly, and incredibly easy to make, making them a perfect low-carb treat for any occasion. They’re great for holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or as a sweet snack any time of the day. With almond flour as the base and a touch of sweetener, these cookies satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated erythritol (or your preferred low-carb sweetener)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for a slight lift)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sweetener:
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and erythritol until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer.
3. Add the Vanilla and Dry Ingredients:
- Mix in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the almond flour, salt, and baking powder (if using) to the butter mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms.
4. Shape the Cookies:
- Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls, or use a cookie scoop for uniformity. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each ball gently with the bottom of a glass or your palm to form round cookies.
5. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as almond flour cookies can brown quickly.
6. Cool:
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional Variations:
- Add Flavorings: Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or lemon, for added flavor.
- Chocolate Dipped: Dip the cooled cookies in sugar-free dark chocolate for a decadent treat.
- Sprinkle Toppings: Top with crushed nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt before baking for added texture.
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: They can also be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, assuming 20 cookies):
- Calories: Approximately 100
- Net Carbs: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 9g
These Keto Shortbread Cookies are a delightful way to enjoy a sweet treat without derailing your low-carb lifestyle. Enjoy their rich, buttery flavor and crumbly texture with your favorite low-carb drink or on their own!