The aroma of childhood: shortbread cookies through a meat grinder – without rolling and molds

Tips and tricks | June 11, 2026

This recipe is familiar to many since childhood. Shortbread cookies, which our grandmothers used to make through a meat grinder , are not only quick to prepare, but also have an incredibly delicate structure and crispy crust . All you need is a minimum of effort and a maximum of pleasure !

📌 Why you should make these cookies:

  • ✅ Does not require special molds
  • ✅ No need to roll out or shape the dough by hand
  • ✅ Perfect for family tea parties or a festive table
  • ✅ Has an appetizing appearance thanks to the figured grille
  • ✅ Recipe tested over the years

📝 Ingredients:

  • Butter — 250 g
  • Chicken yolks — 2 pcs.
  • Sugar — 180 g
  • Light mayonnaise – 5 tbsp.
  • Baking powder – 1.5 tsp.
  • Salt – a pinch
  • Vanillin or vanilla sugar — 2 g
  • Wheat flour — 500–550 g

👨‍🍳 Step-by-step recipe:

Step 1. In a deep bowl, mix soft butter, egg yolks, sugar, salt, and mayonnaise until smooth.

Step 2. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and vanilla. Gradually add this mixture to the butter base, kneading a soft and elastic dough.

Step 3. Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes – this will make it easier to work with.

Step 4. Prepare a meat grinder with a special cookie grate. Cut the dough into convenient pieces, insert into the meat grinder and turn the handle to form cookies. Cut the pieces into 5–6 cm pieces.

Step 5. Place the shaped cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Bake in an oven preheated to 180°C: first 10 minutes, then turn on convection and bake for another 7–8 minutes until golden brown.

💡 Advice from grandma:

For a more intense flavor, add a pinch of grated lemon zest or a pinch of cinnamon to the dough. For an even more interesting cookie , dust it with powdered sugar after baking.

Shortbread cookies through a meat grinder are a traditional Ukrainian pastry that does not require special skills , but gives maximum pleasure. Ease of preparation, minimal mess in the kitchen and impeccable taste – this is what makes this recipe a favorite among housewives.

Try it — and this aroma, familiar from childhood, will once again fill your home with warmth and comfort.
Save the recipe and share with your friends! ❤️

Leave a Comment