How many calories are in one shortbread biscuit?

December 30, 2025 •

3 min read

A single, small shortbread biscuit typically contains around 40-70 kcal, but this can vary widely based on size, ingredients, and brand. Known for its simple recipe of sugar, flour, and a high proportion of butter, this delightful treat is a dense source of energy.

Quick Summary

The calorie count of a shortbread biscuit is influenced by factors like size, ingredients, and preparation method. Most small, standard-sized biscuits contain between 40 and 70 calories, with fat and carbohydrates being the primary contributors to its energy content. Homemade versions can be customized for fewer calories.

Key Points

Calorie Variation: A single shortbread biscuit's calorie count ranges widely, typically between 40 and over 100 kcal, depending on size, brand, and ingredients.
Primary Calorie Source: Shortbread's calories primarily come from its high content of butter, sugar, and flour, making it a calorie-dense food.
Brand and Size Impact: Commercial brands and variations like chocolate-dipped or larger 'fingers' can significantly increase the calorie count compared to a basic, small biscuit.
Nutritional Composition: A small biscuit offers little protein and is high in saturated fat and carbohydrates, specifically from sugar.
Moderation is Key: Due to its energy density, shortbread is best consumed in moderation as a treat within a balanced diet.
Homemade Modifications: Baking your own allows for recipe adjustments, such as reducing butter or sugar, to lower the calorie content.

A Closer Look at the Calorie Count

Understanding how many calories are in one shortbread biscuit requires looking beyond a single number. The wide range in calorie counts (from roughly 40 to over 100 kcal) is due to several variables. These include the size and shape of the biscuit, whether it's homemade or store-bought, and any additional ingredients like chocolate, nuts, or flavourings. Shortbread's core ingredients—butter, sugar, and flour—are all calorie-dense, making even a small piece a concentrated source of energy. The rich, buttery texture is what makes shortbread so unique, and it’s also the source of its high fat content.

Factors Influencing Shortbread Calories

Size and Shape: A small, round biscuit will have a different calorie count than a large, thick 'finger' or a homemade square. A typical 11-12g round biscuit might be around 50-60 kcal, whereas a larger, heavier one could be significantly more.
Brand Variations: Commercial brands often have standardized recipes and sizes, but they differ significantly. For example, a Walkers shortbread round is around 53 kcal, while an M&S biscuit might be higher. Checking the nutritional information on the packaging is the most accurate way to know.
Ingredients: While classic shortbread is simple, many variations exist. Chocolate-dipped shortbread, for instance, adds calories and sugar, making it more indulgent. Recipes incorporating nut meals or different types of flour will also alter the final nutritional profile.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought: When you bake your own shortbread, you have full control over the ingredients. This allows you to potentially reduce calories by using less butter or sugar, or by opting for calorie-controlled alternatives. However, traditional homemade recipes are often richer and can be higher in calories than mass-produced versions.

Nutritional Breakdown of a Standard Shortbread Biscuit

Beyond just calories, a shortbread biscuit also contains other macronutrients. For a typical small biscuit (approx. 11-12g):

Fat: This is a major contributor to shortbread's calories. A single biscuit can contain between 2.5g and 5g of fat, much of which is saturated fat from the butter.
Carbohydrates: Shortbread is also a significant source of carbs, primarily from flour and sugar. Expect a single biscuit to have around 5g to 10g of carbohydrates.
Sugar: The sweetness of shortbread comes from its sugar content, which is typically 2-4g per small biscuit.
Protein: Shortbread is not a good source of protein, with most small biscuits containing less than 1g.

Comparison of Shortbread Biscuits


Type of Shortbread Biscuit	Approximate Calories per Biscuit	Notes
Standard Small Round (approx. 12g)	50-60 kcal	Classic, buttery, and dense.
Large Finger (approx. 18-20g)	90-105 kcal	A more substantial snack, larger serving size.
Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread	70-100 kcal	Calories increase due to the added chocolate coating.
Homemade Shortbread	Varies widely	Depends on recipe, ingredients, and portion size.

Can Shortbread Be Part of a Balanced Diet?

Shortbread, like many sweet treats, is best enjoyed in moderation. While it can be a delicious part of a balanced diet, it's not a nutrient-dense food. The high levels of saturated fat and sugar mean that it should be an occasional treat rather than a daily staple. For those looking to enjoy shortbread while managing calorie intake, portion control is key. You can also explore alternatives or modify recipes to create a lighter version. Consider using a reduced-fat butter substitute or lowering the sugar content when baking at home.

Portion Control: Instead of reaching for a handful, enjoy just one biscuit and savour the flavour. A single small biscuit is a reasonable indulgence.
Recipe Modification: When baking at home, you can experiment with healthier flours or natural sweeteners to reduce the overall calorie and sugar count. For example, using some whole-wheat flour can add a small amount of fibre.
Mindful Eating: By eating slowly and paying attention to the taste and texture, you can feel more satisfied with a smaller portion, reducing the likelihood of overconsumption.

Conclusion

To determine how many calories are in one shortbread biscuit, you need to consider its size, specific brand, and ingredients. While a small, generic biscuit may be around 50-60 calories, larger or more decadent versions can easily exceed 100 calories. Due to its high fat and sugar content, shortbread is a calorie-dense treat best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence. By practicing portion control or exploring lighter homemade recipes, you can still enjoy this classic baked good while maintaining a balanced diet. Always check the nutritional information on packaged shortbread for the most accurate details.

Frequently Asked Questions

A small, standard shortbread biscuit, weighing around 11-12g, typically contains between 40 and 60 kcal.

The calorie count varies due to factors like the biscuit's size and weight, the specific brand, the amount of butter and sugar used, and any added ingredients like chocolate or flavourings.

Yes, shortbread biscuits are relatively high in fat, primarily due to the high proportion of butter used in the traditional recipe. Much of this is saturated fat.

It can be, but not necessarily. Homemade recipes give you control over ingredients, allowing for reductions in butter or sugar. However, traditional homemade recipes are often richer and can contain more calories than some commercial products.

To reduce calories, you can try using a reduced-fat butter alternative, replacing some of the sugar with a natural sweetener, or using a mix of plain flour and whole-wheat flour.

Yes, you can include shortbread in your diet, but it should be consumed in moderation as it is a calorie-dense treat. Portion control, such as enjoying just one small biscuit, is key.

The main ingredients in a classic shortbread biscuit are flour, granulated sugar, and a high proportion of butter, giving it a distinctive rich and crumbly texture.