Introduction
Christmas is the perfect time to whip up some delightful treats, and what better way to celebrate the festive season than with traditional shortbread cookies? Festively buttery and subtly sweet, these cookies are sure to evoke warmth and joy. Easy to prepare and absolutely delicious, Christmas shortbread cookies can be enjoyed plain or adorned with sprinkles and icing to match the holiday spirit.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Unsalted Butter – 1 cup (room temperature)
Granulated Sugar – 1/2 cup
All-Purpose Flour – 2 cups
Cornstarch – 1/4 cup
Salt – 1/4 teaspoon
Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon
Optional: Sprinkles or festive toppings for decoration
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time – 20 minutes
Total Time – 35 minutes
Yield – Approximately 24 cookies
These Christmas shortbread cookies are not just a treat but also a wonderful activity to enjoy with family and friends during the holiday season. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering or simply to indulge in a sweet moment, these cookies are sure to bring cheer to your celebrations.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by creaming the softened butter and sugar in a mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients
Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain the cookies’ tender texture.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Once the dough is combined, gather it into a ball and flatten it into a disc. Wrap the disc in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
After the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Step 6: Cut the Cookies
Using cookie cutters, cut out shapes from the rolled-out dough. Place the cut-out cookies onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges begin to turn light golden brown.
Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 9: Decorate (Optional)
Once cooled, you may proceed to decorate the cookies with icing, sprinkles, or enjoy them plain.
Notes
Note 1: Butter Temperature
Ensure that the butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming with sugar.
Note 2: Chilling the Dough
Chilling the dough is essential to prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Note 3: Cookie Storage
Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week for maximum freshness.
Note 4: Customization
Feel free to customize the flavors by adding vanilla extract, almond extract, or citrus zest to the dough.
