In the midst of the joyful festive season, nothing quite captures the essence of Christmas like the charming aroma of freshly baked treats wafting through the kitchen. Austrian Christmas baking holds a special place in the hearts of many, with its tradition of crafting delightful sweets that embody the holiday spirit. Today, we bring you a delightful recipe that combines the buttery goodness of shortbread with the sweetness of jam, creating a treat that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Perfect for cozy gatherings or as a heartfelt gift, these Mürbeteignester Shortbread Nests are sure to become a seasonal favorite in your home.
### Mürbeteignester Shortbread Nests
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup raspberry jam
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**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 granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Sift in the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
5. Using your thumb, make an indentation in the center of each dough ball to create a nest-like shape.
6. Fill each indentation with a small amount of raspberry jam, taking care not to overfill.
7. Bake the shortbread nests in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from the oven and allow the shortbread nests to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once cooled, dust the shortbread nests with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
10. Serve and enjoy these delightful Mürbeteignester Shortbread Nests with a warm cup of tea or coffee, or package them up as festive gifts for loved ones.
These charming shortbread nests are the perfect combination of buttery, crumbly goodness and fruity sweetness, making them a delightful addition to any Christmas celebration. Little ones will love helping to shape the dough and fill the nests with jam, creating fond memories in the kitchen that will last a lifetime. With their festive appearance and irresistible flavor, these Mürbeteignester Shortbread Nests are sure to bring a touch of Austrian Christmas magic to your home this holiday season.
