Get ready to embrace the cozy vibes of the season with these delicious Christmas Winter Shortbread Bites! Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread cookies are a classic holiday treat that everyone loves. Perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Sprinkles or colored sugar for decoration (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
3. Chill the Dough
Shape the dough into a log or flatten into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors meld and makes the dough easier to handle.
4. Preheat and Slice
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dough from the refrigerator and slice it into bite-sized pieces or roll it into small balls. Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Add Sprinkles
If desired, gently press some sprinkles or colored sugar onto the tops of each cookie for a festive touch.
6. Bake
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look a bit soft, but they will firm up as they cool.
7. Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Perfect Shortbread Bites
- Storage: Keep your shortbread bites in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
- Variations: Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or even a hint of peppermint for a unique twist!
- Gifting: These shortbread bites make wonderful gifts! Package them in decorative tins for a homemade holiday gift.
Enjoy the Season with Shortbread Bites!
These Christmas Winter Shortbread Bites are sure to bring joy to your holiday celebrations. Perfectly sweet and buttery, they pair wonderfully with your favorite holiday drinks.