Christmas shortbread cookies

Introduction

These Christmas shortbread cookies are a timeless holiday treat with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for festive gatherings, these cookies can be shaped into holiday figures and decorated with colorful frosting and edible glitter. With simple ingredients and a classic flavor, they are ideal for cookie exchanges, gifting, or serving as a holiday dessert centerpiece.

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Cookies:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup white sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 teaspoon rum extract (optional)
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 tablespoons cold water

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• Food coloring (optional)
• Edible glitter or sprinkles

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
   • Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • In a small bowl, mix the rum extract, almond extract, and cold water. Gradually stir this into the flour mixture until the dough holds together when squeezed.
2. Roll Out the Dough:
   • Turn the dough onto a floured surface and sprinkle it lightly with flour. Roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness.
   • Use floured cookie cutters to cut the dough into festive holiday shapes.
   • Place cookies about 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheets. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
3. Bake the Cookies:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
   • Bake the cookies for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly browned.
   • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 2 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
4. Decorate the Cookies:
   • In a bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and milk until smooth. If desired, divide the frosting into smaller bowls and tint with food coloring.
   • Frost the cooled cookies and decorate with sprinkles or edible glitter before the frosting sets.

Conclusion

These Christmas shortbread cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious. With their buttery base and festive decorations, they’re sure to bring joy to any holiday table. Simple to prepare and perfect for sharing, these cookies are a must-have addition to your holiday baking traditions. Serve them with hot cocoa, gift them in a cookie tin, or enjoy them with loved ones for a cozy, sweet celebration. 🎄🍪

For more details, visit the full recipe

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