There’s something undeniably comforting about homemade cookies, but not everyone has the time—or the ingredients—to whip up a traditional batch with butter and a long list of steps. Enter these Quick & Easy No-Butter Cookies, a game-changer for cookie lovers who want a light, delicious treat without waiting for butter to soften or using complicated techniques.
These cookies are made with basic pantry staples and take only a few minutes to prepare. They have a light texture, a hint of vanilla sweetness, and just the right balance between crisp and soft. Since they’re made with vegetable oil instead of butter, they’re naturally lower in saturated fat, making them a great alternative for those looking for a lighter option.
Perfect for busy mornings, afternoon snacks, or a last-minute sweet craving, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love These No-Butter Cookies
1. Quick & Easy – Ready in Just 15 Minutes
Unlike traditional cookies that require softened butter and chilling time, these no-butter cookies come together in a matter of minutes. The simple dough requires no special equipment, and you don’t have to wait for anything to rest or rise. Just mix, shape, and bake!
2. Made with Simple, Everyday Ingredients
One of the best parts about this recipe is that it requires basic pantry staples—eggs, flour, sugar, vegetable oil, and a few other common ingredients. If you ever find yourself craving cookies but don’t have butter on hand, this recipe is the perfect solution.
3. A Healthier Alternative to Traditional Cookies
Since these cookies use vegetable oil instead of butter, they have a lower saturated fat content, making them a lighter option. They also contain cornstarch, which helps create a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture without the need for extra fat.
4. Perfect for Everyday Snacking
These cookies are not overly sweet, making them ideal for daily snacking. They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk, and they can be enjoyed at breakfast, as an afternoon treat, or even as a light dessert after dinner.
5. Completely Customizable
While this is a basic vanilla sugar cookie recipe, it’s easy to modify by adding extra flavors, toppings, or mix-ins. You can create endless variations by incorporating cocoa powder, spices, or different types of sugar.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 2 pcs |
| Powdered sugar | 100g |
| Vanilla sugar | 10g |
| Vegetable oil | 100g |
| Baking powder | 7g |
| Cornstarch | 50g |
| Flour | 300g |
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla sugar until smooth. Add the vegetable oil and mix well.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
Sift in the baking powder, cornstarch, and flour gradually, stirring continuously until a soft, non-sticky dough forms.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Take small portions of dough and roll them into balls. Flatten them slightly and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges turn slightly golden.
Step 5: Cool & Serve
Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy them with tea, coffee, or as a quick snack!
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Fiber | 0.5g |
| Sodium | 50mg |
The Role of Each Ingredient in This Recipe
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a specific role in ensuring the cookies come out perfectly textured and flavorful. Let’s take a closer look at how they contribute to the final result.
Eggs – The Binding Agent
Eggs act as the glue that holds the cookie dough together. They provide structure, moisture, and richness, ensuring the cookies don’t turn out too dry or crumbly.
Powdered Sugar – Lightness & Sweetness
Unlike granulated sugar, powdered sugar dissolves more easily into the dough, giving these cookies a lighter texture. It also helps create a delicate sweetness that isn’t overpowering.
Vegetable Oil – A Butter Substitute
Instead of using butter, this recipe relies on vegetable oil, which keeps the cookies moist and tender. Since oil is already in liquid form, it allows the dough to come together quickly without needing extra steps.
Cornstarch – The Secret to Softness
Cornstarch is often used in baking to create a tender, delicate texture. In these cookies, it helps keep them soft while also preventing them from becoming overly dense.
Flour – The Structural Base
Flour provides the foundation of the cookies, giving them structure and allowing them to hold their shape while baking. The amount of flour used determines whether the cookies are chewy, crispy, or fluffy.
Baking Powder – Light and Fluffy Texture
Baking powder acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies puff up slightly as they bake. This results in a light, airy texture rather than a dense, heavy cookie.
Vanilla Sugar – Flavor Boost
Vanilla sugar enhances the sweet, aromatic flavor of the cookies, giving them a delicious bakery-style taste. If you don’t have vanilla sugar, you can substitute it with a small amount of vanilla extract.
Ways to Customize These No-Butter Cookies
One of the best things about these cookies is how easy they are to customize. With just a few adjustments, you can create different variations to match your cravings.
1. Chocolate Lovers’ Version
- Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dough for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips or chunks into the batter before baking.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an extra indulgence.
2. Citrus Twist
- Add grated lemon, orange, or lime zest to the dough for a fresh, zesty flavor.
- Replace vanilla sugar with lemon extract for a citrus-forward taste.
3. Spiced Cookies
- Mix in cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a warm, comforting cookie.
- Sprinkle a bit of brown sugar and cinnamon on top before baking.
4. Nutty Crunch
- Add finely chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts to the dough.
- Roll the cookies in crushed nuts before baking for an extra crunchy coating.
5. Sugar-Dusted Classic
- Before baking, roll each cookie in powdered sugar for a soft, melt-in-your-mouth finish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?
Yes, but keep in mind that olive oil has a stronger flavor than vegetable oil. If you want to substitute, use light or mild olive oil to avoid overpowering the cookies.
2. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Keep in mind that gluten-free doughs can sometimes be more delicate, so handle them gently.
3. How do I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
4. Can I use granulated sugar instead of powdered sugar?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Powdered sugar dissolves more easily, creating a smoother cookie. If you only have granulated sugar, you can blend it in a food processor to make it finer.
5. Why did my cookies turn out too dry?
If your cookies are dry, it may be due to too much flour. Be sure to measure accurately and avoid packing the flour into the measuring cup. You can also try adding a bit more oil or an extra egg yolk for extra moisture.
Conclusion: A Simple Yet Satisfying Treat
These Quick & Easy No-Butter Cookies prove that delicious homemade treats don’t have to be complicated. With just a few basic ingredients and no butter required, they come together in minutes and deliver a light, flavorful bite that’s perfect for everyday snacking.
Whether you keep them plain, dust them with sugar, or customize them with your favorite add-ins, these cookies are a fantastic go-to recipe whenever you need something sweet without the hassle. Try them today and discover just how easy and delicious homemade cookies can be!
Quick & Easy No-Butter Cookies: A Perfect Everyday Treat
Craving cookies but don’t have butter? These Quick & Easy No-Butter Cookies are the perfect solution! Made with simple pantry staples, they are light, slightly crisp, and ready in just 15 minutes. Whether you need a quick snack or a sweet treat for guests, these cookies are easy to make and delicious every time.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12–15 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
Ingredients
- 2 eggs
- 100g powdered sugar
- 10g vanilla sugar
- 100g vegetable oil
- 7g baking powder
- 50g cornstarch
- 300g flour
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla sugar until smooth. Add the vegetable oil and mix until well combined.
2. Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in the baking powder, cornstarch, and flour gradually, mixing until a soft, non-sticky dough forms.
3. Shape the Cookies: Roll small portions of dough into balls, then slightly flatten them. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
4. Bake the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.
5. Cool & Serve: Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy them with coffee, tea, or as a quick snack!
Notes
- Make It Healthier: Use whole wheat flour for a fiber boost.
- Add Flavor: Mix in cinnamon, lemon zest, or cocoa powder for extra variety.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
- Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.