Traditional shortbread cookies rely on butter and added salt, but this version uses almond flour and maple syrup for a nutty flavor and natural sweetness. With no refined sugar or sodium, they’re perfect for a light holiday treat or an everyday snack. The dough comes together quickly and bakes into delicate, melt-in-your-mouth cookies.
Ingredients Needed
- 190 grams (2 cups) superfine blanched almond flour: finely ground for tender cookies.
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup: natural sweetener and binder.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional): warm flavor.
- ⅛ teaspoon sea salt (optional): omit for ultra-low sodium.
How To Make Low Sodium Shortbread Cookies
Preheat Oven:
Set oven to 325°F (162°C). Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dough:
Combine almond flour, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt (if using) in a bowl. Mix with a spatula until dough is crumbly but holds together when pressed.
Roll and Cut:
Place dough between two sheets of parchment paper. Roll to ⅛ inch thick. Cut into squares, rectangles, or shapes with a cutter. Optionally poke holes with a fork for classic shortbread look.
Bake & Cool:
Transfer cookies to prepared baking sheet. Bake 10–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely to firm up.

Recipe Tips
- Use superfine almond flour for best texture.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Let cookies cool fully before handling; they firm as they cool.
- Can be dipped in dark chocolate (unsalted) for a festive variation.
How to Store & Reheat
- Room Temperature: Store in airtight container up to 5 days.
- Fridge: Keeps for 1 week; firm texture.
- Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts (per cookie, approx.)
- Calories: 80
- Sodium: 5 mg (0 mg if salt omitted)
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Carbs: 6 g
- Fibre: 1 g
- Sugar: 3 g
FAQs
Are these cookies completely sodium-free?
Yes, omit the optional salt for a sodium-free version.
Can I replace maple syrup?
Yes, use honey or agave, but flavor will vary slightly.
Can I make these cookies crispier?
Yes, roll thinner and bake slightly longer until edges are golden.
Are they gluten-free?
Yes, almond flour is naturally gluten-free.
Try More Recipes:
- Low Sodium Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
- Low Sodium Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
- Low Sodium Sugar Cookies Recipe
Low Sodium Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy20
servings5
minutes10
minutes80
kcalCrisp, buttery shortbread made with almond flour and maple syrup — perfect for a low sodium, gluten-free treat.
Ingredients
190 g (2 cups) almond flour
¼ cup pure maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
⅛ tsp salt (optional)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (162°C). Line baking sheet with parchment.
- Mix almond flour, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt until combined.
- Roll dough between parchment sheets to ⅛ inch thickness. Cut into shapes.
- Place on baking sheet and bake 10–12 minutes until edges are golden.
- Cool completely; cookies firm as they cool.
