The festive season is filled with the aroma of warm spices and sweet treats wafting through the air. One beloved Italian Christmas baking tradition that brings joy to many homes is the delightful Canestrelli Shortbread Flower Cookies. These delicate, buttery cookies are not only a delight to the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes with their intricate flower designs. Perfect for gifting or enjoying with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to brighten up your holiday season. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring some Italian flair to your kitchen!
**Canestrelli Shortbread Flower Cookies**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 egg yolk
– Colored sugar for decorating
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture. Mix well until fully incorporated.
4. Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should come together and be easy to handle.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use flower-shaped cookie cutters to cut out the cookies. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet.
6. To create the traditional canestrelli design, lightly press a wooden skewer or the back of a thin paintbrush into the center of each cookie, twisting slightly to form a flower shape.
7. Sprinkle colored sugar over the top of each cookie for a festive touch.
8. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow the canestrelli cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep well for up to a week, but chances are they will be enjoyed long before that!
These Canestrelli Shortbread Flower Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering and make a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family. The buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with the delicate decoration will surely impress your guests. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of Italian Christmas baking infuse your home with warmth and joy. Happy baking!
