As a food enthusiast, I find that there’s nothing quite like the comforting warmth of homemade cookies. Specifically, Pamela’s Shortbread Cookies have stolen a place in my heart—and my kitchen. 

Their rich, buttery flavor pairs beautifully with a cup of afternoon tea or coffee. I often enjoy them while lounging with a good book, or at a friends’ gathering. The delightful crumbly texture tinged with a hint of orange zest creates an experience that beckons for shared moments and cherished memories.

What Are Pamela’s Shortbread Cookies?

Pamela’s Shortbread Cookies are more than just baked goodies; they carry a legacy. Crafted from high-quality ingredients, these cookies are both gluten-free and plant-based, making them accessible to a variety of diets. With a perfect balance between sweet and buttery, they are a treat that spreads joy with every bite. The recipe is straightforward, beckoning even novice bakers to give it a try.

The Ingredients

To craft these delightful cookies, you will need:

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

¼ teaspoon sea salt

1 lb (2 sticks) plant-based butter

¾ cup powdered sugar (this creates a tender crumb; feel free to use cane sugar if preferred)

2 cups Pamela’s Artisan Blend All-Purpose Flour

¾ cup Pamela’s Nut Flour Blend (or substitute with finely ground almond flour)

2 tablespoons orange zest (approximately the zest from one large orange) and 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 tablespoon maple syrup

These ingredients come together to create a perfect cookie that melts in your mouth.

How to Make Pamela’s Shortbread Cookies?

Making these cookies is an enjoyable process that’s simple to follow. Each step invites you to smell, taste, and immerse yourself in the delightful task of baking. So, let’s dive into the detailed steps, starting from the preparation phase.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

The first step is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly, achieving that irresistible golden color. Trust me; an adequately preheated oven is crucial.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent your cookies from sticking and makes for an easy cleanup afterward.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Pamela’s Artisan Blend All-Purpose Flour, Pamela’s Nut Flour Blend, sea salt, and ground cinnamon. Whisk them together until they’re well combined. This ensures that the salt and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, take the plant-based butter and powdered sugar. Beat them together on medium speed until fluffy. This usually takes about 3–5 minutes. The light and airy mixture will create a delightful texture in your cookies. Add the vanilla extract, orange zest, and maple syrup during this step; mix until everything is well blended.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. You can do this in increments to prevent a flour cloud from forming. Stir until combined, but avoid excessive mixing. A gentle hand here keeps your cookies tender.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Using your hands or a melon baller, scoop small amounts of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. You’ll want these cookies to have room to spread.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven and cookie size.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Once they are ready, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period allows the cookies to firm up, making them even more scrumptious.

Notes: Expert Tips for Success

• Chill the Dough: If you’re short on time, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes helps the cookies hold their shape better.
• Flavor Experimentation: Feel free to swap out the orange zest for lemon or lime if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Sugar Alternatives: If you prefer, you can substitute powdered sugar with coconut sugar for a richer flavor.
• Check Doneness: Cookies may look soft right out of the oven but will firm up as they cool. Avoid overbaking.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality vanilla extract and organic butter for the best taste.

Storage Tips

To retain the cookies’ freshness, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last about a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long! If you want to store them for more extended periods, consider freezing them. Just layer them with parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.

Nutrition Information

pamela’s shortbread cookies recipe nutrition facts

Serving Suggestions

1. With Tea: Serve alongside your favorite tea blend. The light butteriness pairs impeccably with Earl Grey or chamomile.
2. Ice Cream Sandwiches: Press a scoop of vanilla or orange sorbet between two cookies for a refreshing dessert.
3. Crumbled Topping: Crush cookies over a fresh fruit salad or yogurt for an added crunch. The sweetness complements the natural flavors of fruit.
4. Gift Wrapping: Package them in decorative containers as gifts for friends and family. Everyone appreciates homemade treats.
5. Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled cookies for an elegant touch. The richness of chocolate makes for an extraordinary contrast to the cookies.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Pamela’s Shortbread Cookies?

1. Butter Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of plant-based butter, regular unsalted butter works wonderfully.
2. Nut Flour Variations: Instead of Pamela’s Nut Flour Blend, try coconut flour or cashew flour for a different flavor profile.
3. Sugar Options: Apply brown sugar instead of powdered sugar for a richer caramel flavor.
4. Citrus Variations: Use lemon or lime zest if you’re looking for a zesty alternative to orange.
5. Maple Syrup Substitute: Honey or agave syrup can replace maple syrup for similar sweetness.

Pamela Dunlap

Pamela’s Shortbread Cookies Recipe

As a food enthusiast, I find that there's nothing quite like the comforting warmth of homemade cookies. Specifically, Pamela's Shortbread Cookies have stolen a place in my heart—and my kitchen.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 24

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 215

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• 1 lb 2 sticks plant-based butter
• ¾ cup powdered sugar this creates a tender crumb; feel free to use cane sugar if preferred
• 2 cups Pamela’s Artisan Blend All-Purpose Flour
• ¾ cup Pamela’s Nut Flour Blend or substitute with finely ground almond flour
• 2 tablespoons orange zest approximately the zest from one large orange and 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking sheet

Method

 

1. The first step is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly, achieving that irresistible golden color. Trust me; an adequately preheated oven is crucial.
2. While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent your cookies from sticking and makes for an easy cleanup afterward.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Pamela’s Artisan Blend All-Purpose Flour, Pamela’s Nut Flour Blend, sea salt, and ground cinnamon. Whisk them together until they’re well combined. This ensures that the salt and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
4. In another bowl, take the plant-based butter and powdered sugar. Beat them together on medium speed until fluffy. This usually takes about 3–5 minutes. The light and airy mixture will create a delightful texture in your cookies. Add the vanilla extract, orange zest, and maple syrup during this step; mix until everything is well blended.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. You can do this in increments to prevent a flour cloud from forming. Stir until combined, but avoid excessive mixing. A gentle hand here keeps your cookies tender.
6. Using your hands or a melon baller, scoop small amounts of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. You’ll want these cookies to have room to spread.
7. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven and cookie size.
8. Once they are ready, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool co

Nutrition

Calories: 215kcal

Notes

• Chill the Dough: If you’re short on time, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes helps the cookies hold their shape better.
• Flavor Experimentation: Feel free to swap out the orange zest for lemon or lime if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Sugar Alternatives: If you prefer, you can substitute powdered sugar with coconut sugar for a richer flavor.
• Check Doneness: Cookies may look soft right out of the oven but will firm up as they cool. Avoid overbaking.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality vanilla extract and organic butter for the best taste.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Pamela’s Shortbread Cookies are not just treats; they tell a story of simplicity and tradition. With each bite, there’s a connection to the joy of baking and sharing. Whether enjoyed alone with a warm beverage or as part of a festive gathering, these cookies have a way of bringing people together. 

By making these at home, you embrace the process, put love into each step, and create something truly special. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into a baking adventure that fills your kitchen—and your heart—with warmth!

You’ll also like these latest recipes!

• How to make Pamela’s Peach Cobbler
• Pamela’s Gluten Free Banana Muffin
• Pamela’s Gluten-free Ginger Snaps Copycat Recipe