Chestnut Fingers

Chestnut Fingers are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chestnuts with a buttery shortbread crust. These little golden bites are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee, or for sharing with friends and family during a cozy gathering. The slightly sweet chestnut filling pairs beautifully with the crisp and crumbly texture of the shortbread, creating a truly irresistible combination. Let’s dive into how to make these delicious Chestnut Fingers at home!

**Chestnut Fingers**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup chestnut puree
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chestnut puree, sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth and creamy.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the chestnut mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.

4. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula or your hands to create a uniform layer.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before using the parchment paper overhang to lift the slab of Chestnut Fingers out onto a cutting board.

7. While the cookie slab is still warm, use a sharp knife to cut it into fingers or bars of your desired size. Dust the tops with powdered sugar for a decorative finish.

8. Serve these Chestnut Fingers on a pretty plate or store them in an airtight container for up to a week. Enjoy them with your favorite hot beverage for a cozy and delicious treat!

These Chestnut Fingers make a lovely addition to your holiday cookie platter or a lovely homemade gift for someone special. The combination of nutty chestnut flavor and buttery shortbread is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. So, why not whip up a batch of these delightful treats and savor the flavors of the season in every bite!