Shortbread is an easy to make treat, that can look like you spent hours making many different kinds, when you didn’t. If you are having a nice cup of tea with a friend, you would still like to be able to put out a simple, yet satisfying treat.

Shortbread can be made up several ways. I have made it simple and healthy. You can put you own unique twist on it.

Simple Shortbread (Gluten Free/ Dairy Free/ Egg Free/ Vegan/ Refined Sugar Free)

1 3/4 c. gluten free flour mix
1 tsp. xanthan gum
1/2 c. palm sugar (xylitol or other granular sugar)
1 c. coconut oil (or butter if tolerated and not vegan)
1 tsp. vanilla
**Toppings
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Cream coconut oil, sugar and vanilla. Whisk together flour xanthan gum. Add flour mixture to creamy mixture. Blend thoroughly.
Press into a 9″ by 13″ pan.

**Here’s the fun part. You can leave in plain, press an almond or other nut into each 2″ by 2″ square, top with chopped nuts, dark chocolate, or chopped dry fruit. Press nuts or fruit in a little.

Bake for 20 minutes for softer, 25 minutes for crispier squares. Let cool them cut into 2″ by 2″ squares.

**If desired you can melt one ounce of dairy free chocolate and drizzle over squares.

Makes approximately 30- 2″ squares. Freeze well 🙂