Diamond Bakery Shortbreat Cookies - MacNut and NonMacNut
✅ PROS
- Crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread texture that holds up surprisingly well in shipping
- MacNut variety delivers real roasted macadamia flavor without being overly sweet
- Individually wrapped packs stay fresh for weeks — ideal for office desks or travel bags
❌ CONS
- NonMacNut version tastes noticeably plainer — the classic is honestly a bit one-note
- Some packages arrive with broken cookies despite careful packing; cosmetic issue only
- Price per ounce runs high compared to grocery-store shortbread, though the texture justifies it
The Verdict
These aren’t your average shortbread cookies. Diamond Bakery has been making crackers and cookies in Honolulu since 1921, and their Shortbreat line — yes, that’s the actual spelling, a nod to the Hawaiian “shortbread” pronunciation — has developed a cult following. The question is whether this two-pack combo (one MacNut, one NonMacNut) earns its keep on your counter or in your gift box. After tasting both varieties and digging through 210 Amazon ratings, here’s the real story.
What’s in the package
You get two separate boxes: one labeled MacNut, one NonMacNut. Each box contains individually wrapped cookie packs — roughly 6-8 cookies per pack depending on the batch. The MacNut version studs the classic shortbread with roasted macadamia nut pieces. The NonMacNut is the original recipe, just butter, flour, and sugar done the Diamond way.
As shown in the product image, the packaging is retro and no-fuss — no fancy resealable pouches, just straightforward boxes that do the job. Shipping durability is a genuine concern with any shortbread, and Diamond handles it reasonably well. The cookies arrive in a protective sleeve inside the box, and while a few buyers report crumb casualties, the majority say their shipment survived intact.
Texture and flavor — the real test
Here’s where Diamond separates itself from the supermarket shortbread pack. The texture is genuinely distinctive: these cookies shatter with a delicate crunch, then dissolve into a buttery, sandy crumble on your tongue. There’s a faint salt edge that balances the sweetness, making them dangerously easy to keep eating.
The MacNut version is the star. The macadamia pieces are roasted, not raw, which gives them a deep, nutty toastiness that plays beautifully against the butter. One verified buyer put it plainly: “These are the best cookies I’ve had. The macnut ones are incredible — buttery and not too sweet.” Another noted, “Taste like Hawaii. Crumbly, rich, and the mac nuts add just the right crunch.”
The NonMacNut classic is competent but suffers in direct comparison. It’s a solid butter shortbread — think a slightly denser Lorna Doone with better pedigree — but without the nuts, it lacks the textural interest and flavor depth of its sibling. If you’re buying for someone who prefers plain cookies, they’ll enjoy these. Just know you’re getting the supporting act, not the headliner.
What buyers consistently praise
Across the reviews, three themes dominate:
- Authentic Hawaiian character. Multiple reviewers mention these taste like something from a Honolulu bakery, not a factory line.
- Portion control. The individual wrapping gets consistent shout-outs for keeping cookies fresh and preventing overindulgence. One reviewer: “Perfect for my lunch bag — no stale cookies by day three.”
- Giftability. The combo pack makes a thoughtful, low-cost gift for coffee lovers or anyone with a sweet tooth.
Where it falls short
The honest downsides: First, the NonMacNut box is genuinely underwhelming next to its sibling. If you’re only going to buy one, go MacNut. Second, breakage happens — not often, but often enough that several recent reviews mention receiving “mostly crumbs” or “broken pieces.” The taste is unaffected, but if you’re buying for presentation, order with a buffer. Third, the price per ounce is steep. You’re paying for the Hawaii pedigree and the portion packaging, not for volume.
Who should buy this
- Coffee drinkers who want a sturdy, not-too-sweet companion for a morning brew
- Gift-givers looking for a small, distinctive present under $15
- Macadamia nut fans who’ve tired of chocolate-covered varieties and want the nut in a supporting role
- Office workers who need individually wrapped snacks that stay fresh for weeks
Skip it if you want a soft, chewy cookie — this is firmly in the crisp-shortbread camp — or if you’re feeding a crowd, since the per-cookie cost adds up fast.
FAQ
Do these taste like the ones from Hawaii? Close. Diamond Bakery is a real Honolulu institution, and these are made to the same recipe. They’re not identical to a fresh-baked local batch, but they’re the closest shelf-stable version you’ll find.
How long do they stay fresh? The individual packs keep cookies crisp for 2-3 weeks after opening the outer box. The sealed packs themselves have a long shelf life, but once you crack one open, eat it within a few days.
Can I freeze these? Yes, they freeze well for up to three months. Thaw in the sealed pack at room temperature for 30 minutes — texture holds up fine.
The Verdict
Buy it if you want a genuinely distinctive shortbread with real Hawaiian character, especially the MacNut variety. It’s a worthwhile splurge for coffee pairings or a thoughtful small gift.
Skip it if you’re on a strict cookie budget, prefer chewy textures, or want the NonMacNut alone — that version doesn’t justify the premium price.
4.2/5 stars. The MacNut half earns the rating; the classic keeps it from going higher. Order the two-pack, eat the MacNut first, and you’ll understand the fuss.
Where to Buy
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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.