🇺🇸 Best Shortbread Cookies to Buy in the U.S. (2025 Gift Guide)

If you just typed “best shortbread cookies to buy” or “butter cookies gift tins USA,” you’re not looking for theory — you want a clear list you can trust.

This guide gives you exactly that: what to buy, when to gift it, and how to ship without stress. It’s built from real customer behavior across the U.S. and made to help you pick once and buy right.

Shortbread vs Butter Cookies — The U.S. Breakdown

Shortbread cookies: crumbly, buttery, not too sweet. Perfect with coffee or as a “thank you” snack.
Butter cookies: crisper snap, richer butter note, prettier tins for gifting.

👉 Fast takeaway:

• For home snacking, shortbread wins on simplicity.

• For holidays, clients, and family gifts, butter cookies win on presentation and variety.

How to Buy Smart (U.S. Cookie Rules)

1. Check the butter percentage. Anything above 35 % real butter tastes richer. Ours? 42 % New Zealand cultured butter — clean, creamy, no greasy aftertaste.

2. Look at the packaging. Gifting needs strong tins—not soft boxes. Tins look premium and protect freshness.

3. Think variety. A mixed tin lets you please everyone—chocolate for kids, coffee for adults, matcha for foodies.

4. Trust shipping clarity. You should know cost, delivery time, and refund rules upfront. Find all that on Shipping.

5. Gift support. Want cards or branding? Ask before checkout or head to Corporate Gifts.

New U.S. Import Duty Rule (Important!)

Starting August 29, 2025, the U.S. ended the long-standing “de minimis” exemption for low-value imports (previously shipments under US$800 could enter duty-free). 

Key details:

• All small-parcel imports to the U.S. from all countries, regardless of value, are now subject to applicable duties and taxes.

• The consignee (recipient) of the shipment is responsible for duties/taxes unless otherwise arranged.

• Carriers now require full documentation and customs entries even for what used to be low-value shipments.

• During a transitional period, postal shipments may incur a flat duty of approximately US$20-US$60 per package depending on country of origin, before moving fully to ad valorem (value-based) duty by early 2026.

What This Means for You as a Buyer

Starting August 29, 2025, the U.S. government now applies import duties and taxes on all international parcels, regardless of value.

Even though we offer free international shipping, that offer does not include import duties, taxes, or customs fees. These charges are collected directly by your local government, not by Lowrey Foods.

If you’re ordering from outside the U.S., please note:

• The consignee (recipient) is fully responsible for any import duties, taxes, or brokerage fees applied upon arrival.

• Customs processes and rates vary by country and are beyond our control — please contact your local customs office for details.

• Refused packages due to unpaid VAT/duties cannot be refunded for either product or shipping costs.

• To avoid delays, ensure that your shipping address is complete and accurate.

For full details, see our official Shipping Policy.

Shipping to the U.S. — What to Expect

• Delivery window: 4-8 business days via express.

• Duties & taxes now apply (see above).

• Damage coverage: If a tin gets dented or cookies break, we replace it. Zero hassle—see Shipping.

• Clearer entry rules: All shipments require full customs information; incomplete entries may be delayed or returned. 

Top U.S. Picks (Hand-Tested Favorites)

Real butter. Small-batch texture. Big gift energy.

1. Original Butter Cookies — 42 % cultured butter, clean taste, perfect for gifting. → Shop the collection

2. Chocolate Butter Cookies — made with Dutch cocoa; safe bet for everyone. → Shop now

3. Coffee Butter Cookies — deep aroma, ideal for coworkers/clients. → Shop now

4. Matcha Butter Cookies — light bitterness + color pop; trend-friendly gift. → Shop now

5. Raspberry Butter Cookies — fruity and bright; great for Valentine’s or Mother’s Day. → Shop now

When to Gift What — U.S. Holiday Calendar

Why Cultured Butter Changes Everything

Most mass-made cookies use standard butter or oils. Cultured butter ferments naturally, adding subtle tang and caramel depth — the reason these cookies melt on the tongue instead of just crumbling. That’s why people call them “luxury shortbread” after the first bite.

Storage & Shelf Life

• Shelf life: 9 months sealed

• Best kept cool, dry, out of direct sunlight

• Travel-safe: pressure-tested tins survive long shipping routes

FAQs

Q1. Are these made in the U.S.?
They’re crafted in New Zealand, home to world-class cultured butter — then shipped fresh to the U.S.

Q2. How fast is delivery?
Usually 4-6 business days. Faster options appear at checkout.

Q3. Can I include a gift message?
Yes. Add a note at checkout or request branded labels on Corporate Gifts.

Q4. What if cookies arrive broken?
We replace or refund immediately — 100 % covered.

Q5. Do you ship to all U.S. states?
Yes, including Alaska and Hawaii.

Q6. What about import duty?
Because the U.S. ended its duty-free threshold as of August 29 2025, parcels may incur duties. The consignee will typically be responsible unless previously arranged. (See above section.)

Final Call — Choose Your Path

👉 Shop U.S. Best-Sellers → Butter Cookies Collection
👉 Plan Bulk or Holiday Orders → Corporate Gifts