Best Chocolate Chip Shortbread Recipe – Simple 5-Ingredient Cookies

There’s a quiet magic in a well-made shortbread—golden, crumbly, and rich with the warmth of butter. Now, imagine that classic treat studded with melty chocolate chips, turning something already delightful into pure indulgence.

This 5-ingredient chocolate chip shortbread recipe is for those who believe baking should be simple, rewarding, and utterly delicious. No fuss, no complicated techniques—just tender, buttery cookies with little pockets of chocolate in every bite. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe guarantees perfect results every time.

So, why settle for store-bought when you can make something far better—and with just five ingredients? Let’s bake.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Chip Shortbread

This recipe is a game-changer for cookie lovers. Here’s why:

• Only 5 ingredients – Simple pantry staples
• No mixer needed – Just a bowl and spoon
• Perfect texture – Crispy edges, melt-in-your-mouth center
• Ready in 30 minutes – Quick prep, easy bake
• Endlessly adaptable – Add nuts, spices, or different chocolates

These buttery, chocolate-studded cookies deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. They’re foolproof for beginners but impressive enough for seasoned bakers. The perfect treat when you need something delicious FAST.

Pro tip: They taste even better the next day! (If they last that long…)

Now, let’s bake!

Ingredients for Perfect Chocolate Chip Shortbread

The Simple 5-Ingredient Magic

You probably already have everything you need for these heavenly cookies:

Pro Tips for Ingredient Success:

• Butter temperature is key – Should be softened (about 65°F/18°C)
• Why mini chips? They distribute better without weighing down the dough
• For extra flavor – Try browning the butter first

Optional Upgrades:

• ¼ tsp sea salt (for salted caramel vibes)
• ½ tsp almond extract (for depth of flavor)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (for extra tenderness)

Note: This recipe is naturally egg-free and easily made gluten-free with 1:1 GF flour.

Measuring tip: For most accurate results, weigh your ingredients – especially the flour! (Spoon and level if using cups)*

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Chocolate Chip Shortbread

Prep Work (5 minutes)

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C)
2. Line baking sheet with parchment paper
3. Measure ingredients – Have everything ready to go

Making the Dough (10 minutes)

1. Cream butter & sugar
   • Beat softened butter and sugar just until combined (don’t overmix)
   • Pro tip: Use a wooden spoon – no mixer needed!
2. Add vanilla
   • Stir in vanilla extract until incorporated
3. Incorporate flour
   • Gradually add flour in 3 batches
   • Mix until dough just comes together
4. Fold in chocolate chips
   • Gently stir until evenly distributed

Shaping & Chilling (15 minutes + 30 minutes chill)

1. Form the dough into:
   • A log (for slice-and-bake cookies)
   • A rectangle (for classic shortbread fingers)
   • Or press into a pan (for bars)
2. Chill wrapped dough for 30 minutes
   • Why? Prevents spreading and makes slicing easier

Baking (15-18 minutes)

1. Slice chilled dough into ½-inch thick pieces
2. Arrange on baking sheet 1 inch apart
3. Bake until edges are lightly golden
   • Doneness test: Centers should look dry/set

Cooling (10 minutes)

1. Let cool on baking sheet 5 minutes
2. Transfer to wire rack to cool completely

Pro Troubleshooting Tips:

• If dough crumbles: Work in 1 tbsp cold water
• If cookies spread: Dough wasn’t chilled enough
• If too pale: Bake 2 minutes longer

Bonus: These actually improve after cooling completely – the texture becomes perfect!

Next Up: Expert tips for customizing your shortbread…

Tips for Perfect Chocolate Chip Shortbread

1. Butter Matters Most

• Use real butter (no substitutes)
• Room temp = soft but not melted (should hold a thumbprint)

2. Measure Flour Right

• Spoon & level (don’t scoop from bag)
• Or use 125g per cup for precision

3. Chill = Better Cookies

• 30 min minimum (stops spreading)
• Can freeze dough for up to 3 months

Golden Rule: Don’t overmix! Just combine ingredients – shortbread should be tender, not tough.

Want to level up? Try browning the butter first!

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Here’s the breakdown for one cookie (based on 24 servings per batch):

*Based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Dietary Notes:

✔ Vegetarian
✔ Egg-free
✖ Not vegan (contains butter)
✖ Contains gluten

Healthier Swaps:

• Reduce sugar to ⅓ cup (85g)
• Use whole wheat flour (replace 25% of AP flour)
• Try sugar-free chocolate chips

Remember: These are treats – enjoy in moderation! The small portion size helps with portion control.

Nutrition facts calculated using USDA database. Values may vary slightly based on specific ingredients used.

FAQ – Chocolate Chip Shortbread Questions

Have more questions? Drop them in the comments!

Chef’s Note: The Secret to Perfect Shortbread

After testing this recipe dozens of times, here’s my golden rule: respect the butter.

Shortbread isn’t just a cookie—it’s a butter delivery system. The magic happens when you:

• Use European-style butter (higher fat content = richer flavor)
• Cream the butter just until smooth (overmixing = tough cookies)
• Bake at low temperature (preserves that melt-in-your-mouth texture)

My Pro Tip: For next-level flavor, brown your butter first. It adds a nutty depth that pairs beautifully with the chocolate. Just cool it to room temp before using!

Remember: Perfect shortbread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. That’s your cue it’s done—even if it looks underbaked.

Happy baking!

P.S. These cookies taste even better on day 2 as the flavors meld. If you can wait that long!

Author’s Top Picks for More Delicious Recipes

If you loved this Chocolate Chip Shortbread, you’ll adore these other foolproof recipes from my kitchen:

🍐 Easy Pear Butter – A spiced, velvety spread that makes your morning toast feel luxurious (only 4 ingredients!)

🍜 Creamy Chicken and Egg Noodles – The ultimate comfort food with tender chicken and silky homemade noodles

💚 Pistachio Muffins – Moist, nutty, and topped with crunchy streusel – perfect with your afternoon coffee

Each of these recipes shares the same simple, satisfying approach as this shortbread – minimal ingredients, maximum flavor. Happy cooking!

Which one will you try next?