Light, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, these Weight Watchers Whipped Shortbread Cookies are a lighter version of the classic treat inspired by Sugar Spun Run. With a few ingredient adjustments to lower the calorie and point count, you can enjoy these delicate cookies without guilt. Perfect for holiday gatherings, tea parties, or an everyday indulgence, these cookies are simple yet satisfyingly decadent.

Ingredients (Makes 20 Cookies)

  • ½ cup (1 stick) light butter (softened)
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar (sifted)
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (sifted)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (sifted)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional toppings: Sprinkles, crushed nuts, or sugar-free chocolate drizzle

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

  1. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened light butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
  2. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

  1. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt.
  2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can affect the delicate texture of the cookies.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

  1. Using a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, portion out dough balls and place them onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
  2. If desired, use the back of a fork to lightly flatten the cookies or create a crisscross pattern.

Step 5: Add Toppings (Optional)

  1. Decorate the cookies with sprinkles, crushed nuts, or a light dusting of powdered sugar before baking.

Step 6: Bake

  1. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are just slightly golden.
  2. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

  • Calories: 55
  • Protein: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Fat: 3g
  • Fiber: 0.2g
  • Sodium: 30mg

Weight Watchers SmartPoints (Per Cookie)

  • Green Plan: ~2 SmartPoints
  • Blue Plan: ~2 SmartPoints
  • Purple Plan: ~2 SmartPoints

Tips for Perfect Shortbread Cookies

  1. Use Softened Butter: Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
  2. Don’t Skip the Sifting: Sifting the flour and cornstarch ensures a lighter, more delicate cookie.
  3. Avoid Overmixing: Overworking the dough can make the cookies dense instead of airy.
  4. Customize: Add a small sugar-free chocolate chip to the center of each cookie or drizzle melted sugar-free chocolate on top after baking for an elegant touch.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

  1. Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
  2. Freezing: Freeze the dough or baked cookies for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before baking or serving.
  3. Gift-Worthy: Package the cookies in a decorative tin or box for a thoughtful, homemade gift during the holidays.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Low in SmartPoints: A lightened version of classic shortbread cookies, perfect for Weight Watchers enthusiasts.
  2. Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and a straightforward process make this recipe accessible to all bakers.
  3. Perfect Texture: These cookies deliver the signature light and crumbly texture of traditional shortbread.
  4. Versatile: Customizable with toppings or served plain—they’re delicious either way.

Pairing Suggestions

  • Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of almond milk for a delightful afternoon treat.
  • Serve alongside a fresh fruit platter for a balanced dessert.
  • Pair with a sugar-free hot chocolate for a cozy, low-point indulgence.

Make It Your Own

These Weight Watchers Whipped Shortbread Cookies are the ultimate lightened-up treat, offering all the buttery goodness of traditional shortbread without the excess points. Easy to prepare and versatile for any occasion, these cookies are a fantastic addition to your recipe collection. Whether it’s for holiday baking, a sweet snack, or a thoughtful gift, this recipe will surely impress.