3-Ingredient Shortbread Cookies with Dulce de Leche

These shortbread cookies are the perfect balance of buttery richness and the sweet addition of creamy dulce de leche. The simplicity of the recipe makes it accessible to bakers of all levels, yet the flavor feels indulgent and sophisticated. With a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies are sure to be a hit for any occasion, from festive gatherings to an afternoon treat.

The Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened

  • ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar

  • 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour

  • ¼ cup (60g) dulce de leche

Directions

  1. Prepare: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Make the dough: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the flour, mixing until a dough forms.

  3. Shape the cookies: Roll the dough into small, 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make a small indentation in the center of each cookie.

  4. Add filling: Spoon about ½ teaspoon of dulce de leche into each indentation.

  5. Bake: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

  6. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes | Total Time: 25-28 minutes

Calories: 160 kcal per cookie | Servings: 20 cookies

The Magic of Dulce de Leche

Dulce de leche, which translates to "sweet milk," is a creamy caramelized sauce made by slow-cooking sweetened condensed milk.1 Its rich, smooth texture and indulgent sweetness perfectly complement the crumbly, buttery nature of shortbread, turning a simple cookie into a decadent treat.

Tips for Perfect Shortbread Cookies

  • Use Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for a smooth, well-combined dough.

  • Don't Overwork the Dough: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to prevent the cookies from becoming tough.

  • Bake at a Low Temperature: A lower oven temperature allows the cookies to bake evenly and achieve that delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

  • Fill with Care: Be gentle when making the indentations to ensure they hold the dulce de leche without breaking the cookie.

Creative Variations

This versatile recipe can be customized with various fillings and additions.

  • Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: Swap dulce de leche for a spoonful of Nutella.

  • Fruit Jam: Use your favorite jam, like raspberry or strawberry, for a fruity and tart contrast.

  • Lemon Curd: For a citrusy twist, fill the cookies with tangy lemon curd.

  • Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or almonds on top for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

These 3-ingredient shortbread cookies with dulce de leche are the perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence. With their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and the rich, caramel sweetness of dulce de leche, they are a treat that anyone can enjoy. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it a go-to for both novice and experienced bakers alike.