Pink Grapefruit and Thyme Vegan Shortbread is a buttery, crisp, and herbaceous treat made without any dairy or eggs. These citrus-glazed shortbread triangles are infused with fresh thyme and topped with a vibrant pink grapefruit glaze—perfect for plant-based dessert lovers and elegant teatime snacking.
For the Shortbread:
1 cup vegan butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Pink Grapefruit Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh pink grapefruit juice
1/2 teaspoon grapefruit zest
Pinch of salt
Extra thyme leaves for garnish
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream vegan butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add flour, cornstarch, thyme, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Press dough evenly into the pan and prick the surface with a fork.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, until edges are just golden. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, whisk together powdered sugar, grapefruit juice, zest, and a pinch of salt for the glaze.
Pour glaze over the slightly warm shortbread and spread evenly. Let sit for 5 minutes, then score into triangles.
Cool completely before separating pieces. Garnish with fresh thyme and sea salt, if desired.
For extra citrus zing, add a bit more grapefruit zest to the glaze.
Replace thyme with rosemary for a bolder herbal note.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
These make great edible gifts when packaged in parchment and tied with twine.