How to Make Filled 3-Ingredient Cookies

If you’re looking for an incredibly easy cookie recipe that still delivers big on taste, then these Filled 3-Ingredient Cookies are exactly what you need. With just three basic ingredients—flour, margarine, and sugar—plus a filling of your choice, like guava paste, you can whip up a batch of delicious homemade cookies in no time. The simplicity of this recipe doesn’t take away from the flavor. In fact, these cookies are perfect for those moments when you want a treat that’s both comforting and fun to make.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is foolproof and sure to become a household favorite. The addition of a sweet filling like guava paste makes these cookies stand out, offering a delicious contrast to the buttery, crumbly cookie base. Let’s dive into how you can make these delightful cookies at home!

What Are Filled 3-Ingredient Cookies?

Filled 3-Ingredient Cookies are the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence. The base of the cookie is made with only three pantry staples: flour, margarine, and sugar. Once you’ve made the dough, you add a filling of your choice—guava paste, in this case. The result is a soft, buttery cookie that’s complemented by a sweet and slightly tart filling.

Because the recipe requires only three ingredients for the dough, it’s an ideal choice for beginner bakers, busy individuals, or anyone looking to make a quick, delicious dessert with minimal effort. These cookies are versatile, so you can also experiment with different fillings, from fruit preserves to chocolate, making them perfect for a variety of tastes and occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These 3-ingredient cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly customizable. Here’s why they’re sure to become one of your go-to recipes:

Minimal Ingredients: With just three ingredients for the dough, you don’t need a long list of groceries to get started.

Quick and Simple: The dough comes together quickly, and there’s no need for fancy equipment or complicated techniques.
Customizable Filling: While guava paste is a delicious option, you can experiment with different fillings like chocolate, caramel, or jam.
Perfect for Beginners: Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is practically foolproof, ensuring a great result every time.

Now, let’s get into the specifics of making these delightful cookies.

Ingredients for Filled 3-Ingredient Cookies

Before you begin, gather the following simple ingredients:

Essential Ingredients

4 tablespoons of sugar: This adds just the right amount of sweetness to the cookie dough.

2 cups of all-purpose flour: Flour gives structure to the dough, creating a soft yet slightly crumbly texture.
1 cup of margarine: Margarine provides richness and binds the ingredients together for a buttery cookie base.

Filling

Guava paste (cut into small cubes): Guava paste adds a sweet and slightly tangy flavor to the cookies. Feel free to substitute it with other fillings such as jam, Nutella, or fruit preserves for variety.

Optional Additions

A pinch of salt: While not necessary, adding a pinch of salt can enhance the overall flavor of the cookie dough.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Filled 3-Ingredient Cookies

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s go through the step-by-step process to bake these delicious cookies.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Combine margarine and sugar: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, cream together the margarine and sugar. Use a wooden spoon or electric mixer to mix until the sugar is fully incorporated, and the mixture becomes smooth and slightly fluffy.
Incorporate the flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the margarine-sugar mixture. Stir until the dough forms. It should be soft but not sticky. If the dough is too crumbly, you can add a teaspoon of water or milk to help bind it.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

Shape the dough: Once your dough is ready, take small portions (about a tablespoon) and roll them into balls with your hands. You can make them slightly larger if you prefer bigger cookies.
Flatten and add filling: After rolling the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Gently flatten each ball with the palm of your hand.
Add guava paste: Place a small cube of guava paste in the center of each flattened cookie. If you want the filling to remain visible, you can leave the guava on top. Alternatively, you can fold the edges of the dough around the filling to enclose it.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you finish shaping your cookies.
Bake: Place the baking sheet with your cookies in the oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn golden brown. The bottoms should be slightly golden but not burnt.
Cool and serve: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for the Perfect Filled 3-Ingredient Cookies

Don’t Overmix: When incorporating the flour into the sugar and margarine, be careful not to overmix the dough. Overworking the dough can result in tough cookies.
Use Cold Margarine: Cold margarine helps keep the dough from becoming too sticky and makes it easier to handle.
Filling Options: If you’re not a fan of guava paste, you can easily swap it for other fillings such as fruit jams, dulce de leche, Nutella, or even peanut butter. Just be sure that the filling is not too runny, or it may leak out during baking.
Storage: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage, making them a great make-ahead treat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use butter instead of margarine?

Yes, you can substitute butter for margarine in this recipe. However, margarine tends to yield a softer cookie, while butter will give the cookies a richer flavor and a slightly crispier texture.

2. What other fillings can I use?

You can fill these cookies with a variety of sweet fillings, such as:

Fruit preserves (strawberry, apricot, raspberry)
Nutella or chocolate spread
Caramel or dulce de leche
Peanut butter or almond butter

3. How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make these cookies vegan, simply use a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. If you’re using coconut oil, be sure to chill the dough slightly before baking, as coconut oil can melt quickly in the oven.

4. Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked cookie dough. Shape the cookies and add the filling, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer bag or container. When ready to bake, you can pop them straight into the oven without thawing—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

5. Why did my cookies spread too much?

If your cookies spread more than expected, it could be due to overmixing the dough or using margarine that’s too soft. To prevent excessive spreading, chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking.

Conclusion

These Filled 3-Ingredient Cookies are a simple, delicious, and versatile treat that can be made with minimal effort and ingredients. With just three core ingredients for the dough, you can whip up these cookies in no time, and the filling options are endless. Whether you’re a beginner baker or simply looking for a quick dessert to make on a busy day, these cookies are a perfect choice. Try them with guava paste or experiment with your favorite fillings—you’re bound to love the result!