These black sesame shortbread cookies are buttery, lightly crumbly, and just a little bit different in the best way. If you love classic shortbread but want something that feels fresh and interesting, this recipe is an easy place to start.
The black sesame adds a gentle nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with rich butter, without tasting overpowering. They’re simple to make, use everyday ingredients, and are perfect with a cup of tea or coffee.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
- Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture
- Subtle nutty flavor from black sesame
- Easy recipe with minimal ingredients
- Great for tea time, gifting, or everyday treats
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Wire cooling rack
Black Sesame Shortbread Cookies
These cookies are made with a blend of all-purpose flour, butter, sugar, and ground black sesame seeds, resulting in a delicate crumb and lightly toasted flavor. The recipe makes around 24 cookies and comes together quickly.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup ground black sesame seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually mix in the flour, ground black sesame seeds, and salt until just combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Gently flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cook And Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information (Approximate)
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Calories: 120 kcal per cookie
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Protein: 1 g
FAQ
What Do Black Sesame Cookies Taste Like?
Black sesame has a mild, nutty flavor that’s slightly toasted and earthy. In these cookies, it adds depth without overpowering the buttery shortbread base.
Can I Use Store-Bought Ground Black Sesame?
Yes. You can use store-bought ground black sesame or grind whole black sesame seeds yourself using a spice grinder or food processor.
Can I Make These Cookies Ahead Of Time?
Absolutely. These cookies keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Can I Freeze The Dough Or Baked Cookies?
Yes. The dough can be frozen for up to 2 months. Baked cookies also freeze well once completely cooled.
Do I Need To Toast The Sesame Seeds First?
If you’re grinding your own seeds, lightly toasting them first can enhance the nutty flavor, but it’s optional.
Tasty Black Sesame Shortbread Cookies Recipe
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Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually mix in the flour, ground black sesame seeds, and salt until just combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Gently flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
