These Christmas Shortbread Bites are a delightful addition to any cookie platter, with a buttery shortbread texture and festive multi-colored nonpareils. They’re simple to make, using just a few ingredients, and are perfect for sharing during the holiday season!
These Christmas Shortbread Bites are buttery, festive, and fun to make, with a delicate texture and colorful nonpareils. Perfect for holiday cookie platters, they’re as delicious as they are cute!
INGREDIENTS
- Butter (1/2 cup, softened): Provides a rich, buttery flavor and helps create a tender shortbread texture.
- Sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the dough without overpowering, giving it a subtle sweetness.
- Almond Extract (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a hint of almond flavor that complements the buttery shortbread.
- All-Purpose Flour (1 1/4 cups): Forms the base of the dough, giving structure to the shortbread bites.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
- Multi-Colored Nonpareils (4 teaspoons): Adds a festive look to the bites with a pop of color.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with plastic wrap, leaving a 1-inch overhang to help lift the dough out later. Set aside.
- Step 2: Make the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, sugar, and almond extract. Beat at medium speed until creamy, scraping the bowl as needed. Reduce speed to low, then add flour and salt. Mix until well combined. Stir in the multi-colored nonpareils.
- Step 3: Shape the Dough
- Knead the dough mixture in the bowl 4-5 times until it forms a ball. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Use the plastic wrap to lift the dough out of the pan and onto a flat surface.
- Step 4: Cut into Bites
- Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 1/2-inch squares. Carefully place the squares, about 1/2 inch apart, onto ungreased cookie sheets, and discard the plastic wrap.
- Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 13-15 minutes or until the bottoms just begin to brown. Let the shortbread bites cool before transferring to a serving plate or storage container.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve these shortbread bites on a holiday cookie platter, or package them as gifts in decorative bags.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, keeping them fresh and flavorful.
Helpful Notes
- Ensure the butter is fully softened before mixing for a smooth dough.
- If desired, use vanilla extract instead of almond extract for a classic flavor.
- For an even bake, cut the squares to a uniform size and place them evenly spaced on the baking sheet.
Tips from Well-Known Bakers
- Chef Martha Stewart recommends chilling the dough briefly before cutting to maintain clean edges.
- Baker Sally McKenney suggests using unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness of the shortbread.
- Food blogger Deb Perelman advises pressing dough evenly to ensure consistent baking.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- Easy to make with just a few basic ingredients.
- Festive appearance that adds holiday cheer to any treat table.
- Buttery, delicate shortbread texture with a hint of almond flavor.
- Perfect for gifting, sharing, and adding to cookie platters.
VARIATIONS
- Use holiday-themed sprinkles in place of nonpareils for a customized look.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm spice flavor.
- Dip half of each shortbread bite in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.
- Swap almond extract for peppermint extract for a festive twist.