Name: 4 Ingredient Custard Cookies
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: Australian
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar; 1 cup (120g) custard powder; 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour

Why You’ll Love 4 Ingredient Custard Cookies Recipe

These cookies are wonderfully simple, using only four basic ingredients you may already have at home. There’s no need for chilling the dough, complicated steps, or special equipment. The texture is tender and crumbly, similar to shortbread, with a light vanilla flavor from the custard powder. They’re ideal for beginner bakers and also make a great quick bake when you need something sweet in a hurry.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup custard powder
1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
2/3 cup salted butter, softened

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, custard powder, and powdered sugar. Stir until evenly mixed.
Add the softened salted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a smooth, soft dough forms. You can use a spoon, spatula, or your hands to bring it together.
Scoop out small portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Gently press each ball with the back of a fork to flatten slightly and create a criss-cross pattern on top.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. The centers will remain pale.
Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them, as they firm up while cooling.

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 12 cookies

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: About 15–17 minutes

Variations
For a vanilla boost, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough.
For a citrus twist, mix in a little lemon or orange zest.
Dip half of each cooled cookie in melted chocolate for a decorative finish.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
Sprinkle a little granulated sugar on top before baking for a slightly crisp finish.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks.

To freeze, place baked cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. You can also freeze unbaked dough balls and bake them directly from frozen, adding an extra 2–3 minutes to the baking time.

To refresh the cookies, warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3–4 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?

Yes, you can use unsalted butter. Simply add a small pinch of salt to the dough to balance the sweetness.

What is custard powder made of?

Custard powder is typically made from cornstarch, flavoring, and coloring. It gives the cookies their soft texture and subtle vanilla flavor.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that is suitable for baking.

Why are my cookies crumbly?

These cookies are meant to be tender and slightly crumbly. If they are too dry, the dough may need a little more butter or more thorough mixing.

Do I need to chill the dough?

No, chilling is not required for this recipe. The dough can be baked immediately after mixing.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Simply double all the ingredients and bake in batches as needed.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The edges should be lightly golden while the tops remain pale. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Can I add food coloring?

Yes, a small amount of gel food coloring can be mixed into the dough for a festive look.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

If the butter was too soft or melted, the cookies may spread more than expected. Use softened butter, not melted butter.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Conclusion

These 4 ingredient custard cookies are proof that simple recipes can deliver incredible results. With minimal effort and basic pantry staples, you can create soft, buttery cookies that are perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying with a cup of tea. Once you try them, they’re sure to become a regular favorite in your baking routine.